cross-posted from: https://hoosier.social/users/benfulton/statuses/111383853326196706
Bloomington Launches a Pilot E-Bike Voucher Program with Incentives Up to $1,000
“All residents may qualify for point-of-purchase vouchers of $500, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements. Low-income residents who provide proof of income may qualify for increased vouchers worth $1,000 towards an e-bike. This program is launching as a partnership with the Bicycle Garage and Revolution Bike and Bean.”
I also happen to fall into both categories (enthusiast and engineer); it’s funny how the ebike earlier-adoption Venn diagram contains this much overlap. And while I’d love an incentive as much as anyone else, I think good public policy is to help move people who are the least naturally-targeted for an ebike toward an ebike.
Like, if I’m already capable of spec-ing and building my own bikes and ebikes, the limited program funds should go to people who aren’t as capable, at least until more money is available.
One-size bikes – electric or otherwise – are one of those things I feel is like one-size clothes. Most people will fit fine, but could definitely be optimized for maximum comfort.
I mean, it does say “all residents may qualify” – it doesn’t say anything about first-come, first-served or being limited to anything less than 100% of the residents. Are you sure you aren’t assuming a budget limitation that isn’t there?
You’re right that I assumed there exists a budget limit somewhere. Most incentive programs for ebikes, heat pumps, light bulbs, turf removal, etc tend to have a “while funding is available” clause somewhere. The 2022 Denver ebike voucher program that was fully exhausted comes to mind.
That said, the Bloomington program page says half the funds ($15,000) will go to low-income applicants – who qualify for $1k – from a total pot of $30,000 for the year. Each year, they will assess how much to fund the next year with.
Good find.
Also, oof. Even if I had assumed a limited budget, that’s way, way more limited than I would’ve ever guessed.