Thursday, September 5, 2024 | View in browser
City Launches Bicycle Access Voucher Pilot Program to Promote Sustainable Transportation
Applications are now open
 EVANSTON, IL - The City of Evanston is excited to announce its new Bicycle Access Voucher Pilot Program, designed to expand access to sustainable transportation options. This initiative will provide income-qualified residents with vouchers to purchase bicycles, e-bikes, and adaptive bicycles, as well as essential accessories, safety equipment, and bicycle maintenance.
The program supports two key transportation goals outlined in Evanston’s Climate Action and Resilience Plan (CARP): reducing vehicle miles traveled and encouraging more trips by walking, cycling, and public transit. By expanding access to bicycles, the City is reducing emissions from car travel and enhancing the inclusivity of transportation options in Evanston.
Program Highlights
Thanks to $75,000 in funding from the Northwestern University Good Neighbor Fund, eligible residents will receive vouchers to purchase bicycles, accessories, safety equipment, and maintenance from local Evanston bike shops.
Participating retailers include:
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Bucephalus Bikes, 1424 Lake St.
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Mack’s Bike & Goods, 2948 Central St.
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Play it Again Sports, 1908 Dempster St.
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The Pony Shop, 1224 Chicago Ave.
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The Recyclery Collective, 7628 N. Paulina St.
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Wheel & Sprocket, 1027 Davis St.
Voucher amounts will be determined based on individual needs, offering two funding tiers:
- $750 for a standard bicycle, accessories, safety equipment, and maintenance
- Up to $4,000 for an adaptive bicycle or e-bike, accessories, safety equipment, and maintenance
The program will include traffic safety training and bicycle maintenance classes, as well as opportunities to participate in community bike rides. More information about these offerings will be announced to program participants in the coming months.
Accessories and safety equipment may include helmets, locks, lights, and mechanical services, among other essentials. Vouchers will be distributed to eligible applicants through a lottery system until all funds have been allocated.
Eligibility Requirements
Participants must:
- Reside in Evanston
- Be at least 14 years of age (parent or guardian must apply on behalf of minors)
- Have an income below 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI)
Individuals with needs that would not be met by a standard bicycle can qualify for e-bike or adaptive bicycle vouchers.
Application Information
Download the promotional flyer to share. For addition information, please visit cityofevanston.org/bikeaccess, call/text 847-448-4311, or simply dial 3-1-1 while in Evanston.
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Media Contacts:
Cynthia Vargas
cvargas@cityofevanston.org
Phone: 847-448-8234
Jessie Mayo
jmayo@cityofevanston.org
Phone: 847-448-8041
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