October 3, 2024

Unused Bikes Will Go to Good Use If Donated to Department of Transportation’s Annual Bike Donation Event, Friday, Oct. 11

Unused Bikes Will Go to Good Use If Donated to Department of Transportation’s Annual Bike Donation Event, Friday, Oct. 11

Unused bicycles can become a valuable transportation resource for Montgomery County residents in need. The County Department of Transportation’s (MCDOT) annual Bicycle Donation Drive from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 11, in Rockville will make it easy to donate previously owned bikes and ensure they will have a positive impact.

Bikes will be collected, rain or shine, outside of the Montgomery County Council Office Building Garage at the corner of East Jefferson and Monroe Street in Rockville.

“Bikes can be the important first and last mile connection to public transportation,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “These bikes make an impact on local residents who would not otherwise be able to afford them. They also promote exercise, are a climate-friendly mode of transportation and can ease access to transportation options.”

Bicycles should be in good working condition or need only minor repairs. Rockville Bike Hub volunteers will refurbish the bikes, and MCDOT will place them with children and adults in the County through the MCDOT Bike Match Program or the Rockville Terrific Kids program. 

“Since the program began in June 2020, our Bike Match program has received about 1,065 bike requests, and we have placed over 755 donated bikes,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “However, that still leaves a need for over 300 bikes. We are hoping to be able to collect enough bikes to fulfill all of these requests.”

The bike donation event also will be accept donations by check to go toward bike repairs. Checks can be made out to the Rockville Bike Hub and left with staff at the donation site. Donations are tax-deductible and receipts will be available. 

Community members can organize a bike collection at their school, place of worship or within their neighborhood and bring the bikes to the event in Rockville.