Federal Deployment in Bay Area
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Mayor Barbara Lee Announces Oakland’s First Electric Bike Lending Program
Sept. 23, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
News from: Mayor's Office
Contact: Justin Phillips, Director of Communications
Mayor Barbara Lee Announces Oakland’s First Electric Bike Lending Program
Oakland, CA – Mayor Barbara Lee today announced the launch of Oakland’s first-ever electric bike (e-bike) lending program, a city-led initiative designed to expand clean, affordable, and reliable transportation options for working families and residents across Oakland.
The program, located at the Fruitvale BART Bike Station, allows residents age 18 and older to rent an e-bike for a four-week period at $120, with a dramatically reduced $20 rate for low-income residents.
“Launching this program here in Fruitvale matters, because accessibility starts in the heart of our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Lee. “We want families to have reliable, low-cost options to get to work, school, and daily essentials. This is another step in making Oakland the cleanest, safest, greenest city in America. I’m grateful to the California Air Resources Board for investing in Oakland and helping us make this vision a reality.”
Tackling Cost Barriers
E-bikes typically range from $2,000 to $6,000, making them out of reach for many residents. By creating a low-cost rental option, Mayor Lee’s administration is tackling that affordability gap head-on and ensuring Oaklanders have access to sustainable transportation right where they live.
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The Fruitvale Bike Station, already a trusted community hub for bicycle valet and repair services, will operate the program. E-bikes available include the Gazelle Medeo T-9 City, a commuter-friendly Class 1 e-bike built for comfort and safety. Riders can begin the rental process and check eligibility at oaklandca.gov/ebike.
This initiative is made possible by a $1.8 million, five-year grant from the Clean Mobility Options (CMO) voucher program, funded by the California Air Resources Board.
Voices of Support
City leaders and community partners praised Mayor Lee’s leadership in bringing the program to life:
Councilmember Noel Gallo (District 5): “Electric bikes make getting around easy and fast, even for our seniors. With this new rental program right here in Fruitvale, residents can experience e-bikes at a very low cost. I’m excited to try one out myself.”
Josh Rowan, Director of OakDOT: “This program is the culmination of years of community advocacy for affordable, community-run mobility. Under Mayor Lee’s leadership, Oakland has turned that dream into a reality.”
Cesar Hernandez, CALSTART / CMO: “We are proud to support Oakland’s bold step forward. This program delivers affordable, clean mobility access for communities who need it most.”
Justin Hu-Nguyen, Bike East Bay: “Mayor Lee’s commitment to expanding access is a game-changer. This program will bring e-biking to neighborhoods not yet served by bikeshare, directly addressing a key equity barrier.”
About the Program
Lead Sponsor: $1.8M grant from Clean Mobility Options, California Air Resources Board
Operator: Fruitvale BART Bike Station
Location: Fruitvale BART Transit Village
Eligibility & Rentals: oaklandca.gov/ebike
With this new program, Mayor Lee and the City of Oakland are advancing a cleaner, more equitable future by ensuring every resident - regardless of income - has access to safe, reliable, and sustainable transportation.