We are thrilled to report progress in our mission to enhance e-bike access for disabled residents in Alexandria. Although our initial request for reasonable accommodation to maintain free e-bike access for disabled individuals after August 1, 2025, was rejected, the City of Alexandria is now receptive to a proposal allowing paratransit clients to use Capital Bikeshare e-bikes as a transportation option, provided their physician approves their use. This is a vital step for high-functioning disabled residents, such as those who struggle to walk to transit stops but can cycle with electric assistance.

To further promote equitable mobility, we propose complementing this program with an initiative to improve access for elderly residents, offering Capital Bikeshare e-bikes at a capped fee of $2 per trip, matching the paratransit fare. This affordable rate would enable seniors, many of whom face mobility challenges similar to high-functioning disabled individuals, to travel independently to essential destinations like healthcare facilities, grocery stores, and community centers.

Globally, cities like London, Bengaluru, Kampala, and Buffalo demonstrate the power of e-bikes for disabled and elderly populations. London’s bike-sharing program, with over 500 e-bikes, supports individuals with arthritis or limited mobility through pedal-assist options and accessible infrastructure. Buffalo’s e-bike libraries have distributed thousands of e-bikes to underserved communities, enhancing access for disabled and elderly residents. Bengaluru and Kampala’s initiatives help users navigate congested or hilly areas, offering a reliable alternative to public transit.

E-bikes offer transformative cost savings, estimated at $5,000–$10,000 annually for paratransit clients and seniors. Paratransit trips cost $30–$70 each, so 4–6 weekly trips could total $8,320–$12,480 per year. In contrast, e-bikes at $2 per trip cost $416–$624 annually for the same trips, saving $7,904–$11,856. Additionally, replacing short car trips (with annual costs of $8,000–$12,000 for fuel, insurance, and maintenance) with e-bikes, which cost just $21/year to charge, can save $1,658–$4,317 or more if a car is fully replaced. Combining these reductions, e-bikes can save $5,000–$10,000 yearly, especially for those relying heavily on paratransit or cars. Citywide, e-bikes could contribute to billions in savings by 2050 through reduced emissions and infrastructure costs.

In Alexandria, it is estimated that e-bikes could benefit 10–20% of high-functioning disabled paratransit users—potentially hundreds of residents—who can use pedal-assist e-bikes or adaptive designs like tricycles. The proposed elderly program would similarly support seniors with mobility challenges. With over 70 Capital Bikeshare stations and e-bikes offering electric assist up to 20 mph, these programs are well-equipped to transform mobility for both groups.

We commend the city’s openness to the paratransit e-bike proposal and urge swift adoption of both this initiative and the proposed $2-per-trip e-bike program for seniors. Together, these efforts would make Alexandria a leader in inclusive, affordable transportation. Join us in supporting this vision—sign and share this petition today! For more details, visit https://capitalbikeshare.com or https://www.nadtc.org for disability and mobility resources.