Carbondale Bike Project seeks county support for paid half‑time shop manager

Representatives of the Carbondale Bike Project told Pitkin County commissioners on Sept. 10 they are seeking partnership or funding help to sustain the community bicycle shop and to hire a half‑time paid shop manager.

Steve Novie, a local architect and member of the Carbondale Bike Project Advisory Board, introduced the group and described its mission. “Our mission is that we promote individual community and environmental health through a sustainable, safe, and educational community bike shop offering affordable cycling solutions, education, and support for transportation and environmental needs,” Novie said. He described programs that include free helmets, workforce training for bike mechanics, donation events and providing low‑cost “town bikes” used by commuters to reach transit stations.

Novie said the volunteer organization has grown and that staff burnout is a concern. “One of our main goals is to get a halftime shop manager position paid,” he said, asking the county to consider collaboration, grants or other opportunities to strengthen the project’s finances.

The commissioners thanked Novie and Kevin White, the shop’s assistant shop manager, and suggested county staff could follow up on potential opportunities and partnerships. The Carbondale Bike Project said it already receives local municipal help and space at the Third Street Center and planned to reach out to other regional partners including Rafta and WeCycle.

No formal county action was taken; the presentation was part of the meeting’s public‑comment period.