35 residents will be included in the first round of Long Beach’s electric bike rentals.
Long Beach residents have until April 18 to apply for Long Beach’s electric bike lending program. The pilot program will allow residents to rent an electric bike, helmet and lock for up to three months for free.
The City is using $350,000 from Long Beach Recovery Act funds for the first year of the program, as reported by the Signal Tribune in September. Residents who are enrolled in certain federal or state assistance programs will receive priority for 24 of the bikes, while the remaining 11 will be available to the general public.
Participants in the program will also receive education on E-bike technology.
“Our new Electric Bicycle Lending Library is a bold step toward a more sustainable and equitable transportation system in Long Beach,’’ said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “By providing our residents with the chance to experience the benefits of E-bikes firsthand, we’re not only promoting eco-friendly mobility but also fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.’’
Long Beach shop Propel Bikes will provide the 35 E-bikes, with standard, cargo and tricycle model options. Applications can be submitted online or via paper copies available in person at any Long Beach Public Library location.
Applications are available in English, Spanish, Khmer and Tagalog. Applicants who meet eligibility requirements will be selected at random to participate in the first round of the program. Selected participants will be notified in May, and operator training and E-bike pick up will be scheduled soon thereafter.
The applicant list will be used for additional lending rounds until the list is exhausted. Any Long Beach resident over the age of 18 can apply, as no driver’s license is required.
“In alignment with the City’s 2030 strategic vision, Long Beach seeks to achieve a balanced, multi-modal transportation network that enhances connectivity, retains our community character, encourages active lifestyles, and enhances environmental sustainability by reducing gasoline consumption and greenhouse gas emissions,” read a public statement the City released about the program.
The continuation of the program following 2024 will depend on this pilot year’s success, Long Beach Transportation Planner Reed Sherlock to the Signal Tribune in September.
