This week is packed with important discussions and events related to transportation, bicycle advocacy, and the growing popularity of e-bikes. From potential shifts in federal policy to local community engagement, here’s a breakdown of what’s happening:
Trump’s Transportation Policy: What to Expect
The recent change in presidential administrations is likely to bring significant changes to transportation policy, including funding and priorities. Here’s what we can expect:
Potential Shifts in Federal Funding
- Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA): President Trump is expected to closely examine and potentially reverse some aspects of the IIJA, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. While this act allocated significant funds to transportation and infrastructure, the Trump administration may seek to reallocate funds toward different priorities like border security. Approximately 50% of the IIJA funds remain unspent, which the new administration could redirect.
- Public Transit Funding: There’s a strong possibility of cuts to public transit funding, including passenger rail services like Amtrak. This could significantly impact the ability of transit agencies to maintain and expand their services. The elimination of core formula programs and discretionary Capital Investment Grants (CIG) from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), as proposed in Project 2025, could severely harm transit authorities.
- Emphasis on Public-Private Partnerships: The administration is likely to push for public-private partnerships to fund infrastructure projects, potentially shifting away from direct federal funding for public transit.
Deregulation and Policy Changes
- Reduced Regulatory Burdens: The new administration is expected to reduce regulatory burdens in the transportation sector. This may include reversing safety regulations and potentially impacting policies related to accessibility, such as wheelchair access.
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Policies: A major shift in EV policy is expected, with the new administration moving to eliminate subsidies and policies that favor electric vehicles. President Trump has already revoked the previous administration’s electric vehicle mandate. This could impact the growth of the EV market and related infrastructure projects.
- Congestion Pricing: The Trump administration is likely to oppose congestion pricing, such as New York’s plan to toll drivers entering Manhattan.
Impact on Transit
- Deterioration of Systems: Reduced federal funding for public transit could lead to the deterioration of existing rail and bus systems.
- Increased Traffic: Without adequate investment in public transit, cities may experience worsening traffic congestion.
- Reduced Global Competitiveness: Underfunded public transit systems may diminish the global competitiveness of major cities.
Key Takeaway
The shift in administration suggests a move towards deregulation, reduced federal funding for public transit, and a potential redirection of infrastructure funds. This could lead to significant challenges for public transportation systems and a shift in the approach to electric vehicle adoption.
San Francisco Bicycle Coalition Member Meeting
The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition (SFBC) is holding its annual member meeting this week, providing an opportunity for members to engage with the organization and shape its future direction.
Meeting Details
- Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025
- Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM PST
- Location: Children’s Day School, 333 Dolores Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
- Who Can Attend: Current members of the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition
What to Expect
- SFBC Updates: The meeting will include updates on the latest activities and initiatives of the SFBC.
- Board of Directors Candidate Forum: A key feature of the meeting is a forum for candidates running for the SFBC Board of Directors. This provides a chance for members to hear from the candidates, ask questions, and make informed choices in the upcoming election.
- Networking: Members will have the opportunity to meet and network with other cycling enthusiasts and advocates.
- Valet Bicycle Parking: Valet bicycle parking will be provided for attendees.
Why It Matters
The SFBC is a vital organization that works to create safer streets and more livable communities for all San Franciscans. This meeting is an important opportunity for members to get involved, learn about the organization’s work, and influence its future direction.
E-Bike Updates: New Regulations and Safety
E-bikes continue to gain popularity, and this week provides a chance to review new regulations, safety advice, and incentive programs.
New California E-Bike Laws for 2025
California has introduced new e-bike laws that took effect on January 1, 2025, aimed at improving safety and clarifying e-bike classifications.
- Class 3 E-bikes: Class 3 e-bikes are now restricted to pedal-assist only, with throttles no longer permitted.
- Motor Power Limits: E-bike motors are capped at 750 watts, and any e-bike exceeding this limit is no longer classified as an e-bike.
- Speed Limits: E-bikes designed to exceed 20 mph on electric power alone will not be classified as e-bikes.
- Pedal Requirement: E-bikes must have functional pedals to qualify as an e-bike.
- Battery Certification: By 2026, all e-bike batteries must be certified for safety.
- Modified E-bikes: E-bikes that have been modified to exceed speed or power limits will be excluded from the legal definition of an e-bike.
- Sales Regulations: SB 1271 prohibits the sale or distribution of e-bikes that have not been tested for compliance with the new regulations.
- Enforcement: Using a throttle on a Class 3 e-bike or modifying an e-bike to increase its speed or power beyond legal limits can result in fines and confiscation of the bike.
E-Bike Safety Tips
Riding an e-bike safely is essential for all riders. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Wear a Helmet: Always wear an approved helmet, regardless of age, speed, or legal requirements. For e-bike riders, helmets designed for higher speeds, like those meeting the Dutch NTA 8776 standard, are recommended.
- Proper Helmet Fit: Ensure your helmet fits correctly, sitting level on your head, low on your forehead (no more than two finger widths above your eyebrows), with snug straps forming a “V” under your ears.
- Secure Footwear: Wear secure footwear that won’t easily fall off, and tie shoelaces tightly to avoid getting them caught in the spokes or pedals.
- Use Lights and Warning Devices: Utilize lights and warning devices such as horns or bells to enhance visibility and alert others.
- Follow Traffic Laws: Obey all traffic laws, ride on the right side of the road, with traffic, and avoid riding on sidewalks.
- Take the Lane: When necessary, take the lane and watch for parked car doors opening ahead of you.
- Maintain Your Bike: Keep tires properly inflated and ensure your e-bike is in good working condition.
- E-Bike Safety Education and Training: If you are new to e-bikes, seek guidance from experienced riders or participate in safety education programs.
E-Bike Incentive Programs
To encourage the adoption of e-bikes, California has launched a statewide incentive program.
- Voucher Program: Eligible California residents can apply for a voucher of up to $2,000 towards the purchase of an e-bike.
- Incentive Amounts: The base incentive is $1,750, with an additional $250 available for low-income individuals or those living in disadvantaged communities.
- Eligibility: The program is limited to people whose income is less than 300% of the federal poverty level.
- Stacking Incentives: The state incentive can be combined with local incentives, if available.
- Safety Certification: E-bikes must have a UL or EN safety certification to qualify for the program.
- Approved Models: E-bikes must be purchased from a list of approved models.
- Application: The first application window opened in December 2024 and closed quickly due to high demand. More application windows are planned for 2025.
- Requirements: Those who receive a voucher must purchase the bike within 45 days of the award (with an option to extend for 45 more days), own the bike for one year, and take a 12-minute online bike safety course.
Key Takeaway
The new regulations aim to ensure e-bike safety and responsible use. Riders should be aware of these changes, prioritize safety, and take advantage of incentive programs to make e-bikes a viable transportation option.
This week offers numerous opportunities to engage with critical discussions and take action. Whether you’re interested in transit policy, bicycle advocacy, or e-bike safety, there’s something for everyone. Stay informed, get involved, and help shape the future of transportation in your community.
