CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) – Charlottesville is working to make getting around town easier and more affordable through its e-bike voucher program, which has helped more than 100 people offset the cost of electric bikes this year.
The program offers an alternative to driving while providing residents with new transportation options. Recipients say the vouchers have changed how they move through the city.
Lynn Puntillo was among 112 people selected for the city’s 2025 e-bike voucher program. She said receiving the voucher was unexpected but transformative.
“I was wanting to get an e-bike before the summer, and I was actually selling my car,” Puntillo said. “I signed up for the voucher program through the city—and when I got the email saying I won, I was jumping up and down. I was so excited.”
Of 11 voucher recipients contacted by 29News, all said the program was worth it and they continue riding their e-bikes.
“The voucher paid for about half of the bike, and I was able to get an upgrade because of it,” Puntillo said. “That made a huge difference.”
For Puntillo, the e-bike replaced her car entirely. She said hills feel manageable, errands are easier and riding is enjoyable.
“Some people say using an e-bike is like cheating, but if you’re having fun, who cares?” Puntillo said. “I’m still getting exercise. It just feels like somebody’s standing behind you, pushing you a little.”
Reagan Greenfield said the voucher made reliability possible, turning her e-bike into her main transportation method.
“It greatly reduced the price of getting a really nice bike that I can rely on every day,” Greenfield said. “I’m so grateful to have received that.”
Greenfield encouraged others to apply for future programs.
“Unless you put yourself out there, you never know,” Greenfield said. “It was a super simple process—and totally worth it.”
Both recipients gave high ratings to their experience with the program.
“Oh my gosh—it’s like a 20. I’ve loved it,” Puntillo said.
“I wouldn’t go back now,” Greenfield said. “I use my e-bike as my main mode of transportation, and I love it.”
The city plans to conduct a survey in January to assess current e-bike usage among voucher recipients.
Do you have a story idea? Send us your news tip here.
Copyright 2025 WVIR. All rights reserved.
