Programs in cities like Nelson and Saanich are helping residents switch from cars to e-bikes – but success hinges on more than just financial aid
E-bikes are making emissions-free transportation more accessible for more Canadians. In Saanich , B.C. , an income-based loan program is helping ensure more people can get them in the first place.It was just after her 40th birthday when Nelson , B.C. , resident Carrie Clark realized her continuing knee and wrist pain was making traditional biking impossible. Buying an electric bike was out of the question financially.
According to Dr. Bigazzi, lower-income participants also moved more trips from cars to e-bikes than higher-income participants. “These were people who wanted to drive less but faced financial barriers to purchasing an e-bike,” he said. “Once that barrier was removed, they began using e-bikes … in a way they hadn’t been able to before.”
In Nelson, where most bikes were bought locally, the program has provided a noticeable boost to small businesses. “It’s been a really positive economic development for our bike shops,” Mr. Cormack said. To date, 186 residents have used the program, borrowing more than $900,000 to purchase e-bikes. For Ms. Clark, Nelson’s infrastructure is functional but far from ideal. “I have my routes, but I definitely avoid certain places,” she said. “I go out of my way to stay off busy streets.” Still, she’s seeing more e-bikes on the road than ever before. “Pretty much now, unless you see people out hard-core mountain biking, an e-bike.”
Appwebview Cities E-Bikes Cycling Bike Lanes City Space Nelson B.C. Saanich Ordid3649209983
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