Dr. Marcus Webb
Living in a transportation desert can severely limit one’s opportunities and freedom. This is a reality for residents of the Montbello neighborhood in Denver, where public transportation options are limited, and ride-share bikes and scooters are non-existent. In response to this challenge, neighborhood leaders have taken matters into their own hands by launching an e-bike library and community e-van rental program.
The Montbello Organizing Committee (MOC) recently celebrated the opening of their e-bike and e-van rental program, along with the installation of new charging stations. The inspiration behind these initiatives came from the recognition that Montbello is a transportation desert, where demand for transportation exceeds supply. Mayra Gonzales, MOC’s chief impact officer, highlighted the need to create something for themselves in order to overcome the limited transportation options available in their neighborhood.
In 2020, a Community-Based Needs Assessment conducted by the city’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency revealed that Montbello lacked accessibility and infrastructure for electric mobility. To address these challenges, MOC and community partners developed the Montbello Moves initiative, which aimed to improve transportation options in the area. One of the outcomes of this initiative was the creation of an e-bike library, which allows residents to rent e-bikes for up to three days.
The e-bike fleet, consisting of 10 Class 1 Gazelles, is housed inside a solar-powered shipping container located at the Montbello Community Building. This sustainable approach ensures that the bike batteries can be charged for free. Residents can rent the e-bikes and helmets through MOC’s website, promoting safe and responsible biking practices. The program also provides on-site bike mechanics to assist with any maintenance needs and promote a culture of cycling within the community.
In addition to the e-bike library, Montbello residents can benefit from the community e-van rental program. This wheelchair-accessible van, with a capacity of 10 people, provides transport services for community-based organizations. Groups like the Colorado Changemakers Collective have already signed up for the program, utilizing it for their summer camp field trips. This service fills a crucial gap in transportation options, allowing organizations to take their members on outings and activities outside of the neighborhood.
The Montbello e-bike library and community e-van rental programs are not just about addressing transportation challenges; they are about building a stronger and more connected community. By providing access to sustainable and affordable transportation, these initiatives empower residents to explore new opportunities and expand their horizons. Montbello’s commitment to creating its own mobility solutions serves as an inspiring example of grassroots efforts to overcome transportation barriers in underserved neighborhoods.
The e-bike and e-van rental programs in the Montbello neighborhood of Denver are part of a larger industry focused on improving transportation options in underserved areas. The demand for transportation in these neighborhoods often exceeds the limited supply, creating what is known as a “transportation desert.” The goal of initiatives like the e-bike library and community e-van rental program is to bridge this gap and provide residents with access to sustainable and affordable transportation.
The market forecast for the electric mobility industry is promising, with a significant increase in the adoption of electric bikes and vans expected in the coming years. As more communities recognize the need for alternative transportation options, the demand for e-bike and e-van rental services will likely continue to grow. This presents an opportunity for businesses and organizations to invest in these types of programs and support the transportation needs of underserved neighborhoods.
However, there are several issues related to the industry that need to be addressed. One of the main challenges is the lack of infrastructure and accessibility for electric mobility in many areas. This includes the need for charging stations, bike lanes, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These issues can be barriers to the success of e-bike and e-van rental programs, as they rely on adequate infrastructure to function effectively.
Another issue is the potential for misuse or theft of rental vehicles. Implementing proper security measures, such as registration and tracking systems, can help mitigate these risks and ensure that the rental programs remain sustainable for the community. Additionally, ongoing maintenance and repair services are critical to keeping the e-bike fleet and vans in good condition and available for use.
Overall, the e-bike library and community e-van rental programs in Montbello are valuable initiatives that address transportation challenges in underserved neighborhoods. These programs not only provide residents with accessible transportation options but also contribute to building a stronger and more connected community. By recognizing the need for alternative transportation solutions and taking action to implement them, Montbello serves as an inspiring example for other communities facing similar transportation barriers.
For more information on electric mobility and alternative transportation options, you can visit Electric Bike and Electrek.
