1. Application
September 5 - September 23, 2024
Applications are now closed.
2. Voucher Delivery
October 1
After all applications have been submitted, City staff will verify that applicants qualify and randomly select qualifying applicants for participation in the program. Selected applicants will be notified in the first week of October.
In addition to notification of selection, selected applicants will receive an email containing a unique digital Mastercard. This card can be used at any of the following local shops:
Bucephalus Bikes | 1424 Lake Street
Mack’s Bike and Goods | 2948 Central Street
Play It Again Sports | 1908 Dempster Street, Suite C
The Pony Shop | 1224 Chicago Avenue
The Recyclery | 7628 N Paulina Street
Wheel and Sprocket | 1027 Davis Street
3. Spending a Voucher
October 2024
After the e-gift cards are distributed, you’ll have until October 31 to purchase a new or refurbished bike. You can go shopping at any of the participating retailers just like any other customer, and your card will work as any other debit card (apart from the fact that an employee of the store will have to enter its code manually).
The vouchers are expected to fully cover the cost of one bicycle, a helmet, a secure lock, a pair of bicycle lights, and some extra to spend on service or accessories to make your bike work for your needs. While you will be expected to buy a new bike during the month of October, any remaining value on the card will be available to spend throughout the duration of the program.
4. Bike safety, home mechanic classes, and group rides
October 2024 - July 2025
Participation in this pilot program doesn’t stop when you spend your voucher! We plan to provide opportunities for engagement throughout the coming months, including:
Bike Safety Courses
The city will host free bike safety courses run by licensed instructors. Program participants are strongly encouraged to participate, especially those who are unfamiliar with riding in Evanston.
Bike Maintenance Classes
Later on, the program will provide free bike maintenance classes to equip participants with the skills necessary to save money and time on maintenance throughout the life of their bikes.
Group Rides
In 2025, local partners will host group rides for program participants and the Evanston bicycling community.
Information about all of these opportunities will be provided in program newsletters after launch. Keep an eye out!
5. Data Collection
November 2024 - July 2025
We’re interested in learning about how participants’ bikes are being used so we can better understand the needs being met with this program and how to improve it. As a part of the pilot program, we’ll be collecting data to inform future versions of the bicycle access voucher, and the only way we can collect that data is with your help.
Staff will reach out to participants throughout the program to check in with opportunities to provide information and share individual experiences and perspectives on the program.
