The goRide E-Bike Voucher Program is opening up new ways to get around West Palm Beach. With the generous support from the Knight Foundation and promotional support from the WPB Downtown Development Authority and Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, the program provides $500 to $1,000 vouchers to the community in the West Palm Beach area to purchase an e-bike. Every participant also receives a helmet and lock, making it possible to start riding safely right away.
Strong Community Participation
The first round launched during May, right outside of WPB, in Coleman Park, Historic Northwest, and Pleasant City. Seventy-five people applied, and 20 residents were selected to receive $1,000 e-bike vouchers.
In the second round, eligibility expanded to downtown residents and employees. More than 600 applications were submitted, and 40 additional people are receiving vouchers by the end of 2025. The response reflects how many in our community are looking for affordable, reliable ways to travel without depending on a car.
- Round 1: 20 recipients out of 75 applicants
- Round 2: 40 recipients out of 600+ applicants
Who Benefits
Most applicants reported annual household incomes under $50,000, including many below $25,000.
Many households had no car or relied on a single vehicle, making daily tasks like commuting to work, picking up groceries, or getting to childcare more difficult. For these families, an e-bike provides flexibility and independence.
At the same time, higher-income households also applied, showing that e-bikes have wide appeal across neighborhoods and income levels.
How Riders Are Using Their E-Bikes
Recipients are using their e-bikes in ways that directly improve their daily lives:
- About 90% ride between 5 and 40 miles per week
- 50% ride daily
- Trips include commuting, errands, and exercise
These rides are replacing car trips, cutting transportation costs, and giving people more reliable ways to move around the city.
Building Safety and Confidence
Every recipient takes part in in-person training at West Palm Bikes to learn safe riding, charging, and basic maintenance. Helmets and locks are distributed at pick-up, and support is available for follow-up questions. These steps give riders confidence to use their e-bikes for everyday needs.
Looking Ahead
Feedback from the first round was unanimous: 100% of recipients said they would recommend the program.
As more people begin riding, the benefits reach beyond individual households by reducing traffic, lowering costs, and encouraging healthier travel options for the community.
The demand has already exceeded available vouchers, and there is clear potential to expand access to more neighborhoods in the future.
If you’d like to apply to the e-bike voucher program, click here.
