In Fresno, the convenience of running errands has transformed for residents like Geraldine Ezenwugo, thanks to an innovative local transportation initiative. Instead of juggling bus schedules and medical transport, Ezenwugo now opts for Biz-Werx Mobility Hub’s electric vehicles, paying a modest fee of $4 per hour, or $35 per day, with insurance included.
At a total of 4,596 car and bike trips so far, the state’s investment of $7,579,256.55 results in a cost of $1,649.10 per trip.
The Biz-Werx program, part of the Clean Shared Mobility Network, was funded by California’s $66.5 million Transform Fresno grant, with $7.7 million allocated specifically for the network. Despite its potential, the program is facing challenges with low usage and vandalism of car charging stations.
Only 200 members, including Ezenwugo, have signed up for the electric cars. As of January, 4,429 trips in the 22 electric cars and 167 trips on the 200 electric bicycles have been recorded by Biz-Werx.
Chargers and Bike Racks Installed in Key Locations
Nearly 50 charging stations were strategically placed at public housing sites in southwest Fresno and the Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce’s downtown office. The chamber’s foundation led the Clean Shared Mobility Network, collaborating with Green Commuter Inc., which charged $862,981.35 for the installation.
Unfortunately, many chargers are now unusable due to vandalism, despite efforts to protect them with metal lockers. Racks for electric bikes were also installed but remain largely unused.
Vandalism Hampers Accessibility
A survey by GV Wire in January revealed significant vandalism at charging sites. At Sierra Plaza, eight out of ten chargers were damaged. Although some charges are secured in padlocked lockers, their functionality is uncertain. Legacy Commons, where Ezenwugo resides, has also seen similar issues with only one operational charger amidst vandalism.
Yosemite Village also experienced vandalism, with two of its three chargers affected. The Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce site is the only location with all chargers intact, housing most e-vehicles for maintenance and protection against vandalism.
Dr. Cassandra Little, CEO of the Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce, explained that the focus is on maintaining vehicles downtown for ease of access and security. “Our top priority is having vehicles clean, charged, and ready for our members as quickly as possible,” Little noted.
E-Bikes Face Similar Challenges
Efforts to introduce electric bikes have faced obstacles due to vandalism. Initial plans included installing bike racks at various community sites, but most remain unused. Officials decided to secure the bikes and rent them out similarly to library books. Users pay a refundable deposit and a monthly fee for access.
The Clean Shared Mobility Network, supported by California’s Transformative Climate Communities program, aims to improve transportation options for economically disadvantaged communities in Fresno. Despite the challenges, Ezenwugo appreciates the independence offered by the program, stating, “These cars, we needed something like this years ago.”
As the program seeks sustainability, ongoing efforts include a new campaign to boost e-bike usage and additional funding opportunities. The electric vehicle program has entered its first quarter post-grant, with hopes of becoming self-sufficient. In the meantime, continued support from initiatives like the Clean Mobility Options program and federal funding aims to bolster the program’s future.
Original Story at gvwire.com