Good News for Bicyclists

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) has set an ambitious vision to make cycling a safe and affordable option for more Chicagoans. In addition to connecting bike networks and increasing the number of low-stress and protected bike lane miles in the city, CDOT will facilitate more residents cycling through a bike distribution program and distribute 5,000 bicycles with safety and maintenance equipment over four years to age- and income-eligible residents.

 

For the first year of the program, the bikes will be distributed to participants in 2022 CDOT mobility programming (Green Corps, Learn to Ride and Open Boulevard events) and first-come first-serve for residents that qualify. Depending on demand, the city may implement a lottery for years two to four of the program for residents that qualify.

 

Online and paper applications will be accepted through August 4. Bikes will begin to be distributed in August and each spring/summer of the following four years until 5,000 bikes are distributed.

 

Eligibility requirements include Chicago residence 14 and older (those under 18 need a Guardian’s signature on a liability waiver); a household income at or below 100 percent of the area median income for Chicago; do not already own a bicycle; and face higher mobility hardship.