The City of Boston, MA is launching an e-bike incentive program that will provide discounts of up to US$2,400 to eligible residents. The program’s goals include: accelerating a modal shift to sustainable modes of transportation; improving mobility options for residents; and addressing historic inequities in transportation access.
The program will distribute approximately 1,000 vouchers ranging from US$800-2,400 to help reduce the costs of purchasing an e-bike, and each recipient will also receive US$150 toward the purchase of bicycle safety equipment.
“E-bikes and adaptive e-bikes make active mobility an option for older adults and some people with disabilities,” said Jascha Franklin-Hodge, Boston’s Chief of Streets. “Affordable access to a reliable, active form of transportation can help people stay healthy, be more connected to their community, and meet their transportation needs.”
In order to qualify for the program, an applicant must be a Boston resident aged over 18 who fits at least one of the criteria: income-eligible adult (at or below 40 percent of the Area Median Income); aged over 60; or an adult with a chronic or permanent disability. Qualified applicants will be randomly selected to receive a voucher that can be used within 90 days at one of the participating bike shops.
E-cargo bikes can also be purchased through the program, along with powered handcycle wheelchair attachments and adaptive e-bikes that can be modified to meet the needs of individuals with chronic disabilities.
The pilot program is funded by US$1.5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
“Boston is a city always on the move, and we want to ensure that all of our residents have transportation options that are convenient, affordable, and sustainable for their individual needs,” said Boston Mayor, Michelle Wu. “This e-bike voucher programme will help reduce emissions and expand transportation options for traditionally vulnerable residents.”