Santa Cruz launches new GO BIKE! incentive program to encourage biking

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KION) - Santa Cruz County's Regional Transportation Commission is looking to encourage people to switch from driving to biking through a new bike purchase incentive program. 

The RTC says GO BIKE! will serve low-income adults 18 years and older who live or work in the county.

Community-serving organizations, such as shelters and job placement programs, may also be eligible to apply for vouchers to create their e-bike lending fleets.

To receive a voucher, applicants must complete an online bike safety training by the local nonprofit Ecology Action. 

Vouchers range in value depending on the type of bike you want to buy.

People can get $300 for a traditional bike, $800 for a standard e-bike, and $1,200 for a cargo or adaptive e-bike.

The last option also includes a subsidized annual BCycle membership.

Applications will be accepted starting on June 13 at this link to the Go Santa Cruz website