Where do you travel in just six miles?
That’s the average daily trip in the Portland Metro Area, 80% of which are in a car, according to the Oregon Household Activities Survey. The transportation sector in Multnomah County makes up 44% of carbon emissions. It’s clear that reducing the use of fossil fuel car trips is essential to achieving Portland’s net-zero goal. So, how do we do that?
The need
At the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund, we are developing Strategic Program 6: Comprehensive E-Bike Access and Support (SP 6), providing incentives to low- and medium-income Portlanders to purchase an e-bike. The high initial cost puts them out of reach for many, often starting at $1,500. 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.
The benefits
Using e-bikes provides other benefits, as well. Women and BIPOC community members have stated through surveys that they feel less vulnerable on e-bikes than on pedal-only bicycles. With different styles of e-bikes on the market – including cargo and adaptive mobility versions – there are options to fit most people’s needs.
“Women and BIPOC community members have stated through surveys that they feel less vulnerable on e-bikes.”
The opportunities
More e-bikes also means more experts to service the community. SP 6 will provide job opportunities at Portland bike retailers, including the development and training of 50 e-bike technicians. It will also pilot storage and charging of e-bikes in multifamily buildings, creating safe and secure places for their investments.
On July 3, Portland City Council unanimously approved SP 6. Together with our biking community, we’re rolling forward.
With 16 strategic programs and over $180 million in Community Grants in the Climate Investment Plan, we’re moving toward a more climate-resilient Portland.