NWA non-profit to launch e-bike rebate program funded by EPA grant

BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — A Northwest Arkansas non-profit is about to lead a $7 million Regional E-Bike Rebate Program to promote electric bike use and reduce emissions throughout the state.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded the Tri-Regional Arkansas CPRG Coalition $99.99 million for its “Energy and Environment Innovation for the Natural State” proposal, funding projects across Central Arkansas, Northwest Arkansas and Fort Smith, according to a news release.

Rebates will be provided as point-of-sale vouchers, enabling participants to buy eligible e-bikes at a reduced price, according to the Trailblazers’ website .

“The coalition really showed their professionalism and technical expertise developing a collaborative and effective pollution reduction program,” David Criswell, Trailblazers’ Senior Director of Active Transportation, said. “Trailblazers is thrilled to participate as a sub-awardee in the program, and we’re grateful to Metroplan, NWARPC and the State of Arkansas for allowing this opportunity to become a reality.”

Along with the E-Bike Rebate Incentive Program, the CPRG grant will support projects to cut emissions and boost sustainability, including forest and prairie restoration, energy efficiency upgrades like public fleet electrification, EV chargers, LED streetlights, solar arrays and a geothermal facility at Little Rock National Airport.

The CPRG grant is managed by Metroplan, which worked with the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission (NWARPC) and the City of Fort Smith to obtain the grant and will oversee its implementation.

The launch date for the program has not yet been announced. However, details on eligibility and application procedures will be available soon on the Trailblazers’ website .

For more information about the Trailblazers and the CPRG Coalition, please visit www.wearetrailblazers.org .

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