Question 1

Why is the SGVCOG awarding e-bike vouchers?

Accepted Answer

Vouchers align with the intentions of the GoSGV program. GoSGV is aimed at reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and improving air quality in the San Gabriel Valley. Evidence from our region indicates that e-bikes, and especially cargo bikes, can play an important role in reducing VMT, but the high upfront cost of a new cargo bike presents a barrier to widespread adoption.

Question 2

How much is the voucher worth?

Accepted Answer

$2,000. Until further notice, all GoSGV Vouchers are worth $2,000.

Question 3

Are there additional opportunities if I do not receive a voucher?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you do not initially receive a voucher, you may reapply in subsequent voucher rounds; vouchers that are awarded but go unused may be awarded to another eligible Participant or awarded in a future voucher round. We also invite you to participate in the GoSGV Bikeshare Program, as you may be eligible to borrow a comparable electric cargo bike for a reduced monthly rate.

Question 4

What is funding the GoSGV voucher program?

Accepted Answer

State and local grant money. The GoSGV Voucher Program is supported by three grants, the Regional Early Action Planning (REAP 2.0) grant from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), an LA Metro grant funded by the toll revenue collected on Metro’s Interstate 10 ExpressLanes, and a state Transformative Climate Communities (TCC) grant from the California Strategic Growth Council (SGC).

Question 5

When do voucher Pre-Applications open?

Accepted Answer

Pre-Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are reviewed once the Pre-Application period closes.

Question 6

When will my Pre-Application be reviewed?

Accepted Answer

Pre-Applications are reviewed once the Pre-Application Period closes; the next Pre-Application closing date is set for May 17th.

Question 7

Can I complete my Pre- or Post-Application in writing?

Accepted Answer

No. The GoSGV voucher Pre- and Post-Application must be completed online; an online form helps to reduce the potential for lost applications, protect your sensitive information, and increase the program efficiency. If you need assistance with completing the pre- or Post-Application, please email us anytime at gosgv@sgvcog.org.

Question 8

Do I need all my documentation ready when Pre-Applications open?

Accepted Answer

No. While it may be helpful to have your documentation handy, the Pre- Application does not require you to upload any documents. Remember: if you are selected to receive a voucher, the information you provide in the Pre-Application must match the documents you upload in the Post-Application.

Question 9

Where can I find the link to complete the Post-Application?

Accepted Answer

Your e-mail, if you are selected. The Post-Application link will only be emailed to Participants who are selected to receive a voucher.

Question 10

Will there be multiple opportunities to apply for a GoSGV Voucher?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The SGVCOG is planning several rounds of vouchers, and participants who do not receive a voucher will be considered in all subsequent rounds for which they are eligible.

Question 11

Can I use the voucher to purchase a bike online?

Accepted Answer

No. Vouchers can only be redeemed at one of the several approved brick- and-mortar bike shops located in the San Gabriel Valley.

Question 12

How long do I have to shop for bikes and redeem my voucher?

Accepted Answer

28 days. All awarded vouchers must be redeemed within 28 days of the award date; unused vouchers will be forfeited, and funds reallocated to provide vouchers to additional Participants.

Question 13

Can I purchase a bike that is less than the voucher value?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It may be possible that an eligible bike is less than the value of your voucher; however, any unused voucher funds will be transferred back to the SGVCOG for additional voucher awards. You do not retain the additional voucher funds.

Question 14

Do I have to purchase a bike first and then submit my receipt to receive my funds?

Accepted Answer

No. The GoSGV Voucher provides a $2,000 discount at the time you purchase your bike, provided you are purchasing an eligible bike from an Approved Retailer. Bikes purchased before you receive your voucher are ineligible for the GoSGV Voucher.

Question 15

Can I purchase a bike with this voucher even if it is not on the approved list?

Accepted Answer

No. Only bikes on the Eligible Bike List, which meet all the requirements outlined above, are eligible for the GoSGV voucher.

Question 16

Can I purchase a conventional e-bike or an electric mountain bike with this voucher?

Accepted Answer

No. You can only redeem your voucher toward the purchase of an eligible cargo bike, which is a bike that meets all the requirements outlined above (see Eligible Bikes).

Question 17

Do I have to purchase any kind of accessories for my cargo bike?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You must also select at least one of the following: a front or rear bag, rack, or additional seating (rail, seat, etc.).

Question 18

Why are only cargo/family e-bikes eligible for the voucher?

Accepted Answer

Three reasons. First, the demand to borrow cargo bikes in the GoSGV bikeshare program far exceeds the current fleet. Second, cargo bikes can transport heavier loads—including heavy groceries or young children—which makes them more likely to replace car trips. Third, cargo bikes are considerably more expensive than conventional e-bikes, and a voucher can make the purchase of a cargo bike more feasible.

Question 19

What does the research participation mean for me?

Accepted Answer

Complete several short surveys and register for OpenPATH. Surveys will be sent to you at roughly the beginning, middle, and end of the research study; additionally, OpenPATH – a mobile app designed by researchers at the National Renewable Energy Labs – will securely collect trip data to understand how you use your electric cargo bike.

Question 20

Who is conducting the evaluation study?

Accepted Answer

The University of Tennessee. Dr. Chris Cherry, from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is the Primary Investigator. He has led several similar studies on the efficacy of electric bike voucher programs across the country. The team also includes        Mr. John MacArthur, Sustainable Transportation Program Manager at Portland State University

Question 21

What is the purpose of the evaluation study?

Accepted Answer

Understand the program impacts. While prior research has examined voucher programs that apply toward more conventional e-bikes, little to no research exists on vouchers expressly targeted toward electric cargo bikes. We also want more robust data on how these incentives can help achieve regional, state, and federal VMT- and GHG-reduction goals, which may help us secure funding for additional vouchers.

Question 22

Can I opt out of the evaluation study?

Accepted Answer

No. By participating in the GoSGV voucher program and agreeing to receive a voucher, you consent to participating in the evaluation study. This may include completing an intake survey or completing follow-up survey requests as necessary.

Question 23

How do I know if I live in the San Gabriel Valley?

Accepted Answer

If your address lists any of the following cities or communities, you live in the San Gabriel Valley: Alhambra, Altadena, Arcadia, Avocado Heights, Azusa, Baldwin Park, Bassett, Bradbury, Chapman Woods, Charter Oak, Claremont, Covina, Diamond Bar, Duarte, El Monte, Glendora, Hacienda Heights, Industry, Irwindale, Kinneola Mesa, La Canada Flintridge, La Crescenta, La Puente, La Verne, Michillinda Park, Monrovia, Montebello, Monterey Park, Northeast San Gabriel, East Pasadena, Pasadena, Pellissier Village, Pomona, Rosemead, Rowland Heights, San Dimas, San Gabriel, San Jose Hills, San Marino, San Pasqual, Sierra Madre, South El Monte, South Pasadena, South San Gabriel, Temple City, Valinda, Walnut, West Covina, West Puente Valley, or North Whittier.

Question 24

Are any improvements coming to the GoSGV bikeshare program?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While the structure of the bikeshare program will remain the same, new grant funding will expand the bikeshare’s cargo bike fleet and provide new incentives that reduce the price of monthly membership for certain disadvantaged communities. For more information on these exciting new incentives for the bikeshare program, visit gosgv.com.

Question 25

What can I do if I have any additional questions?

Accepted Answer

Contact us. For assistance during normal business hours, email us anytime at gosgv@sgvcog.org

GoSGV Program

Frequently asked questions