In the heart of the Lehigh Valley, a groundbreaking initiative is paving the way for equitable transportation access. On November 8th, 2024, the community came together at Café The Lodge in South Bethlehem to celebrate the donation of an e-bike to a deserving local resident, marking the beginning of a movement focused on empowerment, sustainability, and community-driven change.
FEAT (Fostering Equitable Access to Transit), a local nonprofit led by Megan Lysowski, spearheaded this effort in collaboration with key partners, including Bicycle Motor Works, CAT (Coalition of Appropriate Transportation), and Bethlehem eBike. Together, they are addressing a critical need for affordable, reliable transportation, particularly for lower-income individuals who rely on such access for independence, economic mobility, and sustainability.
An Empowering Gift for a Better Future
The centerpiece of the event was the donation of a fully outfitted e-bike to Anthony, a South Bethlehem resident. Complete with safety gear, a high-performance battery, and essential accessories like a tire pump and master lock, this e-bike is more than just a vehicle—it’s a lifeline. It symbolizes the independence and opportunity that transportation access can provide.
Megan Lysowski reflected on the day’s success, saying, “This e-bike isn’t just transportation—it’s a symbol of opportunity and empowerment.”
Bicycle Motor Works’ Matt Bzura provided Anthony with hands-on training in basic bike maintenance, fostering self-reliance and ensuring he has the tools to care for his new e-bike. Tim Phelps of CAT supplemented this with a series of “smart cycling” classes to enhance Anthony’s skills and safety on the road. To top it off, Bethlehem e-Bike’s Chris Briggs offered complimentary maintenance services, ensuring the e-bike remains a reliable and sustainable resource for Anthony.
Anthony shared his gratitude, saying, “This bike gives me the freedom to get where I need to go without worrying about costs or delays.”
A Collaboration Rooted in Community Support
The event demonstrated the power of collaboration among Lehigh Valley businesses, nonprofits, and community members. Café The Lodge, represented by Program Director Ian Panyko, played a critical role in hosting the event, underscoring the importance of local partnerships. Megan Lysowski reflected on the day’s success, saying, “This is just the beginning of what we hope will be a much larger initiative to address transportation inequities in our community.”
A Movement for Change
Transportation access remains a significant challenge in the Lehigh Valley. According to regional studies, limited access to reliable transportation disproportionately affects lower-income residents, creating barriers to employment, healthcare, and education. FEAT’s e-bike initiative represents a vital step toward breaking down these barriers, one rider at a time in their newly launched experimental project.
Join the Effort
The success of FEAT’s first e-bike donation highlights the strength of our community and the impact of collective action. As FEAT looks toward the future, plans include expanding e-bike donations, advocating for safer cycling infrastructure, and offering more educational programs to equip riders with the tools they need for success.
Community Outreach Project “FEAT”
The team was founded by Bicycle Motor Works’ Jaclyn Palos Bzura, Bethlehem eBike’s Chris Briggs, and Project Leader Megan Lysowski after having learned of their shared vision at a Lehigh Valley Planning Commission meeting. Within months, they recruited Independent Marketing, Jill Smith, and Marketing Director & Validation Expert Nathan Roman to bring their mission to new heights.
Residents and organizations interested in supporting these efforts can visit featpa.org to learn more about donating, volunteering, or partnering with FEAT to drive lasting change.
About the Author
Jaclyn Palos Bzura is a dynamic entrepreneur, advocate, and leader based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. As a Partner at Bicycle Motor Works, she has spent over a decade mastering the intricacies of managing a family-owned business, excelling in areas such as marketing, advertising, content analysis, and graphic design. Jaclyn is also the Co-Founder of FEAT (Fostering Equitable Access to Transportation), an initiative launched in 2024 to empower disadvantaged communities by providing eco-friendly, affordable eBikes.
In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Jaclyn is a passionate advocate for volunteerism, having held leadership roles in organizations like the PTA, Cub Scouts, and Wesley’s Circle of Friends Preschool. Her mission-driven work extends to projects like “Our Safe Mission,” which promotes safer eBike manufacturing standards and supportive policies for small business growth.
Outside of work, Jaclyn is an avid runner, painter, and pianist, drawing inspiration from her family and a love of the arts. Her dedication to community growth, innovation, and education underscores her belief in the transformative power of mobility and the arts to create opportunities and foster resilience.
