The City of Vista’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) Program is responsible for progressing the City’s 2021 CAP goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the quality of life for all residents. Since 2021, the City of Vista has launched multiple programs as an effort to increase community engagement in the Tree Giveaway Program, Vista Green Business Network, and the E-Bike Safety Training and Rebate Program. 

With the increasing popularity of e-bikes and active transportation, it is essential that riders have the necessary knowledge and skills to ride safely, especially in Vista’s complex transit landscape . From 2022 to 2024, the City of Vista experienced an increase in the number of accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists.  

In response to safety concerns throughout the community, the City of Vista launched its E-Bike Safety Training and Rebate Program in 2024. The educational training component of the program is funded in part by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). This initiative promotes safe and sustainable transportation options while enhancing rider safety and reducing environmental impact. In partnership with the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition, the City offers three-hour city cycling classes, which consists of a classroom-style lesson on e-bikes and the rules of the road, behind-the-handlebars training, and a community ride. 

Eight city cycling lessons were hosted by the City of Vista from May to October 2025, with over 170 residents participating and over 200 helmets given away. The City of Vista also approved over 40 rebates for residents to increase access to e-bike ownership. 

“My 14-year-old son and I took the Vista E-Bike Safety Training last year,” said Kristina Geno, City of Vista resident and Vista Unified School District parent. “While he needed the course to earn his school bike permit, I found it incredibly informative from a driver's perspective as well. The instructors were personable and shared their extensive knowledge along with valuable firsthand experience. I truly believe everyone would benefit from taking this class.” 

The City of Vista is committed to promoting Live Well San Diego’s vision of a safer and healthier region by increasing education, street safety awareness, and opportunities to participate in active transportation. The E-Bike Safety Training and Rebate Program has returned in 2026 due to a grant awarded by OTS. The City of Vista is grateful to partner with the San Diego Bicycle Coalition again, along with Vista Unified School District and Vista Community Clinic, to provide residents with the skills and resources to ride safely.  

To learn more about the E-Bike Safety Training and Rebate Program, please visit vista.gov/ebikes.