Program gives rebates to Portlanders who buy e-bikes
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Next summer, Portland sustainability leaders will provide rebates to low and medium-income residents who purchase electric bikes.
In an early July meeting, the Portland City Council approved the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability’s Strategic Program 6. The program, titled “Comprehensive E-Bike Access and Support,” will cover e-bike discounts for eligible cyclists.
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On Thursday, BPS explained that SP 6 was developed in response to the city’s goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
According to the bureau, the Oregon Household Activities Survey found that 80% of daily trips in the Portland area are traveled by car, while Multnomah County’s transportation sector makes up 44% of carbon emissions.
Officials determined that reducing the number of trips completed in gas-powered cars would boost their goal.
“The high initial cost puts [e-bikes] out of reach for many, often starting at $1,500,” BPS said. “We hope to change that. Access to e-bikes will be a greener transportation option for people to commute to work, run errands, and get to services in their communities.”
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Another potential advantage would be safety. The bureau reported that many survey respondents who are women or people of color have expressed they would feel less vulnerable on e-bikes than traditional bikes.
The rebates will be redeemed at Portland bike retailers that conduct both sales and repairs. Officials plan to begin the request-for-proposals process later this summer.
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