Colorado: Just Like Riding a Bike! Governor Polis Promotes Newly Launched E-Bikes For Rent at Chatfield State Park

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DENVER ~ Denver, CO - Governor Jared Polis and Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Executive Director Shoshana Lew held a press conference today to discuss the new rentable electric bicycles at Chatfield State Park and promote Colorado's new statewide e-bike safety campaign, "Go Safe, Go Far."

Governor Polis expressed his excitement about the new e-bikes, stating that they provide Coloradans with another opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and stay active this summer. He also highlighted the benefits of e-bikes, such as reducing traffic and pollution while saving people time and money. The state has been working to expand access to e-bikes through tax credits for purchasing them and creating low-cost rental programs like the one at Chatfield State Park.

Since its launch in May, the Chat E-Bike program has seen 387 trips totaling 543 miles. Visitors can rent an e-bike for $1 to unlock it and 25 cents per minute of use by scanning a QR code at the station. This joint venture between Colorado Parks and Wildlife and CDOT is being closely monitored to determine if it can be expanded to other state parks.

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Department of Natural Resources Executive Director Dan Gibbs also expressed his enthusiasm for the new program, stating that it will expand recreational opportunities at Chatfield State Park. He also mentioned that Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers accessibility options for visitors with physical challenges through their track chair program, which has expanded to multiple state parks.

CPW Director Jeff Davis emphasized their commitment to making state parks accessible for all visitors and utilizing alternative fuel options like electric bicycles. He thanked CDOT for their collaboration in bringing the e-bike share system to Chatfield State Park.

Governor Polis stressed the importance of safety while riding an e-bike and highlighted CDOT's new campaign, "Go Safe, Go Far." This campaign aims to remind Coloradans about bike safety practices in order to keep themselves and others safe. With the increasing popularity of e-bikes, it is crucial to follow safety measures whether riding in town or exploring a state park.

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CDOT Executive Director Lew also emphasized the importance of safety, stating that while traffic deaths decreased by 6% statewide last year, fatalities among pedestrians and cyclists remain high. She urged riders to use common sense safety practices such as wearing a helmet, using lights and reflectors, and slowing down at intersections. She also reminded riders to educate themselves on local traffic laws and adapt to the differences of e-bikes, such as their ability to accelerate quickly.

Lew provided a list of safety tips for e-bike riders, including wearing a helmet, using lights and reflectors, using bike lanes when possible, and not riding with headphones or under the influence of substances. She also advised new e-bike owners to try out their bike in a safe environment before accelerating.

As Colorado continues to promote alternative modes of transportation like e-bikes, it is important for riders to prioritize safety for themselves and others on the road. CDOT's "Go Safe, Go Far" campaign serves as a reminder for all Coloradans to practice safe biking habits while enjoying the beautiful state parks and outdoor recreation opportunities that Colorado has to offer.

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