River Valley residents have a new reason to get excited about getting around town: a new e-bike voucher program is set to launch as a partnership between the City of Fort Smith, the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission, and Metroplan, giving local residents a helping hand toward purchasing an electric bike.

The initiative is part of a $7 million effort designed to make e-bikes more accessible to residents across Northwest Arkansas, the River Valley, and central Arkansas. By offering vouchers directly to residents, the program aims to make cleaner, more affordable transportation a practical reality for everyday commuters and recreational riders alike.

Fort Smith’s inclusion in the regional partnership means River Valley households will have the same opportunity as their neighbors across the state to take advantage of the program. E-bikes have grown in popularity as a way to cut commuting costs, reduce car trips, and enjoy the outdoors — and a voucher program lowers the barrier to entry for residents who might otherwise find the upfront cost out of reach.

Meanwhile, Fort Smith’s Bakery District has its own community celebration on the horizon: the Bakery District Street Fest returns for its third year on June 20, offering another chance for neighbors to gather, support local businesses, and enjoy the energy of one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

Together, these initiatives reflect a Fort Smith community that continues to invest in fun, sustainability, and connection for all its residents.

Sources: Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, River Valley Democrat-Gazette