Major city launches $1,000 rebate program this month

The city of Atlanta is launching a $1,000 rebate program this month, and residents will need to act quickly to take advantage of the money.

Application for the week-long lottery opens June 16, and you will need to have proof of residency to qualify. Atlanta is offering money to any resident who buys a new electric bike in hopes of reducing the number of cars on the roads.

“We are working to transform Atlanta’s streets into safe, accessible places for people using all types of transportation,” Rebecca Serna, a spokesperson for Propel ATL, told Atlanta News First.

The program is also likely to improve access to employment for the average Atlantan.

“E-bikes can really make mobility and access to work, school and other places people go to every day a little easier, a little faster and improve people’s lives,” Serna said.

The Atlanta Regional Commission predicted 800 to 1,000 e-bikes could hit city streets through the $1 million program, likely reducing the city’s carbon footprint.

Although anyone can apply for a $1,000 rebate, Atlanta said 75% of the checks would go to those making $54,000 or less per year. If you meet the income criteria, your rebate amount will increase to $1,500 for an e-bike and $2,000 for a cargo e-bike.

Anyone earning more than that will receive $500 for a standard e-bike and $1,000 for a cargo e-bike.

“E-bikes are truly a game changer, giving people access to an affordable transportation option for short trips that would otherwise require a car,” said Anna Roach, executive director and CEO of the Atlanta Regional Commission. “The Atlanta e-bike rebate program puts e-bikes within reach of everyone, regardless of income or zip code.”

The average Atlanta resident spends more than $11,000 a year on transportation, according to the Atlanta Regional Commission. However, the average electricity needed to power an e-bike only costs $15.

Alex Beene, a financial literacy professor at the University of Tennessee at Martin, said Atlanta’s program is just one of many springing up across the country as cities seek to make their roads more environmentally friendly.

“It’s really a fantastic way to incentivize cities to address the multiple issues they face,” Beene said. News week. “Using the e-bike can help from an environmental point of view and in combating traffic jams, but for the user it can result in significant savings when you take into account all the costs associated with cars. “

Beene said Atlanta’s program is unique because it prioritizes low-income people, but anyone can still apply for money.

“Regardless of your income level, if you’re considering upgrading to an e-bike, it’s worth applying,” Beene said.