Manitou Springs E-bike program to help low-income residents

MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO)-- An E-bike program makes it easier for low-income residents to get around Manitou Springs.

The city of Manitou Springs is offering vouchers for bike rentals, it's a program they say will make the city more sustainable over time.

"Transportation is so critical to our day-to-day lives, and not having access is such a negative impact for people, their families, and having the ability to have personalized transportation or even access is important," says Tara McCarthy, executive director of PikesRides+.

PikeRides+ is an additional service offered throughout southern Colorado that offers low-cost access to e-bikes.

It's an issue Manitou Springs leaders are focusing on. Low-income and moderate-income families can now apply for benefits to rent an E-bike at no cost.

"lower-income individuals could have difficulties with transportation because, obviously, they don't have the means to get around like everyone else," says Mitchell Carter, Manitou Springs information officer.

To apply, you must be at least sixteen years old and have a Manitou Springs address for at least one year.

Low-income families can receive up to seven hundred dollars in ride credits, and moderate-income families are eligible for up to five hundred dollars.

A family of four is considered low-income if the household's annual salary is below 73,000 dollars. City leaders say this new program will help people attend doctor's appointments, the grocery store, and more.

"to provide another mode of transportation to our beautiful community." parking is a challenge. And so partnering with PIke ride gives visitors and residents alike a way to get into downtown," says Carter.

There are still dozens of vouchers available through the City of Manitou Springs; applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Click here to find out if you qualify.