The Active Transportation Support Program (formerly the Bike Secure Program) is an on-going, rolling grant program with the purpose of promoting active transportation by providing businesses, schools, and agencies with secure bicycle parking, repair stations, skateboard racks, and funding for artistic bicycle racks. The previous guidelines contained information on the type of racks that are eligible as well as the program requirements to apply for the program. The program runs on a $30,000 budget per year with applications being reviewed on a first come first serve basis. However, funding for the program has not been fully utilized in previous years.
The 2021-2022 update of the former Bicycle Secure Program broadened the program with additional program areas that are intended to increase the access of active transportation modes across Monterey County. The updated guidelines were revised to include these Program Areas:
- Roll Repair Program:
- The Transportation Agency would provide maintenance tools and training resources to schools and non-profit organizations to run their own maintenance program.
- Bike Support Kits:
- The support kits would include a range of maintenance and safety items such as bike pumps, patch kits, inner tubes, lights, and reflectors.
- Walk Support Program
- This program seeks to utilize low impact, low cost walk safety improvements like signs, paint and banners to create safer sidewalks and pedestrian areas around schools and participating organizations.
- League of American Bicyclists Training:
- The Transportation Agency is seeking to partner with local schools and non-profit organizations to host training workshops to train prospective instructors about bicycle safety and education.
- Racks and Lockers:
- Already in the existing program, the purchase and shipment of bicycle, scooter, skateboard racks and lockers would be provided to businesses and organizations interested in the equipment.
Each of the program areas has their own requirements. A draft of the new guidelines and application was presented at the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee meeting in January. Staff requests the committee review the finalized guidelines and application which have had a graphic design update.
The updated guidelines will go to the Transportation Agency for Monterey County Board of Directors for approval in June and the new program will go into effect in July.