This year also brought unexpected funding challenges: The federal funding freeze halted important mobility and environmental justice programs we were prepared to advance. At the same time, the limited funds available from the city and state level created uncertainty around transportation investments and slowed opportunities to implement safer infrastructure. Because of these shifts, several key initiatives we had planned, such as the:
- Partnership with Dillard University under the Community Change Grant
- Bike and Pedestrian improvements in the i-10 service corridors under EPA’s Reconnecting Communities Grant
- Continued expansion of our youth programming compromised due to new demands from current grants
- Continued support from City Council through the Recreation Fund now on pause and more could not move forward at the scale or pace our community deserves. While we see this as a systemic funding constraint, we also see this as an opportunity for donors to help us fund our organization’s stability.
To remain responsive in a shifting funding landscape, Bike Easy needs strong unrestricted support. Grants often fund programs, but they rarely cover the backbone of a resilient movement: advocacy, organizing, communications, policy work, rapid response, and the ability to take advantage of opportunities when they arise.
Unrestricted gifts ensure we don’t have to cancel, pause, or scale back core work when government funds are delayed or frozen.
Looking ahead, 2026 will be a pivotal year for biking and safe streets in New Orleans. With federal and municipal funding streams in flux, community-powered advocacy will play a larger role than ever. We need to be ready to:
- Push for safer, connected bike networks
- Defend and advance Complete Streets
- Ensure mobility equity remains at the center of city policy
- Keep pressure on elected leaders to prioritize transportation safety despite budget cuts
Without increased unrestricted funding, we risk losing momentum at the exact moment New Orleans cannot afford to stall on safety. By giving now, you’re not just supporting Bike Easy’s programs. You’re ensuring the movement for safer streets stays strong and resilient through 2026.
Another way to support us, is by joining us in the many events we have planned this month:
Join us for the End of Year Membership Party – Tuesday, December 2nd – 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm – Bayou Bicycles
As someone who shows up on the streets and in support of our mission, we’d love to see you there.
Come and enjoy drinks (alcoholic and non alcoholic), and food while we celebrate and look back at everything we’ve accomplished together this year. We will also introduce our new Executive Committee for our Board, say good bye to the Board Members terming off, celebrate Laura Harris transition to her full-time role at Safe Routes Partnership, award our Bike Easy Awards, and get your feedback to drive our direction in 2026! For more information and to RSVP, click here
Come out to the Coronation Ball for Prometheus!
Honored to be the 1st Queen for Critical Mass’ 2026 Parade: Prometheus; taking place on Friday, January 23rd! Follow them on social media for more details. Blake Owens, previous Bike Easy Board Member and founder of Get Up N Ride will be joining me in the throne as we celebrate bringing the bike community together for big changes in our city!
Join the coronation on Saturday, December 13th (details on flier above)
Don’t miss our Fundraiser Concert with the Hunks of Coal! – Saturday, December 20th – Doors open at 8:00 pm – Concert at 9:00 pm
Last, but note least, mark your calendar for our next Biking after dark FREE Workshop at the Reach Center (2022 St Bernard Avenue – Building C) on Thursday, December 18th from 5:30 pm to 7. For more details and to RSVP click here.
In Gratitude,
Allene La Spina
Executive Director
PS: If you rode with us in this year’s Bicycle Second Line, please take some time to fill out the feedback survey by December 31st!