Jackson considers electric bike fleet

In an effort to save money and fuel and make it easier to negotiate traffic congestion, the Town of Jackson is considering a new mode of transportation for police and city staff.

The Town Council is considering a proposal to purchase six electric bikes at a price of about $2,000 apiece. Funds have been appropriated under the Pathways budget.

Because of Jackson’s heavy traffic congestion, it was determined the pedal assisted bicycles would help the police department, town hall, and public works officials get around town. The bikes can also carry about 40 pounds of additional equipment.

The bikes are designed to augment human power, not replace it. Experts said the bikes could become a primary driver of cleaner air and reduced emissions. Recent emissions inventory data shows ground transportation had the highest percentage of Green House gas emissions in Teton County at 62.1 percent. Passenger cars represented 25.8 percent of the total.

Still to be determined are the potential impacts on insurance liability and worker’s compensation issues that could result from the use of the vehicles.

The Town Council will review the proposal in a workshop Monday.