As costs continue to climb La Crosse families and students are looking for sustainable ways to save money this summer
LA CROSSE, Wis. — News 8000 (WKBT) covered Opportunity Wisconsin’s free bike repair event at UW-La Crosse on Monday, where trained mechanics offered inspections and basic bike repairs at no cost as rising gas prices push working families toward alternative transportation. Opportunity Wisconsin partnered with Bikes Limited to host the event as part of its broader effort to support WI-03 families bearing the brunt of Rep. Derrick Van Orden’s continued support for policies, including the war in Iran, that are sending costs soaring.

“Costs keep going up in every direction and gas prices are becoming extremely unaffordable, and we don’t expect that to change any time soon — biking offers a practical, sustainable alternative, but only works if those bikes are road ready,” said Bryan Boland, La Crosse organizer with Opportunity Wisconsin.

New data released this morning shows inflation at 3.8% in April, the highest level in three years. Wisconsin gas prices currently average $4.33 per gallon and continue to climb. Record-high diesel prices are also straining businesses and local farmers. This week diesel averaged $5.76 per gallon, up $2.53 from this time last year.

News 8000: UW-La Crosse offers free bike repairs as gas prices drive alternative transportation

  • Rising gas prices prompted a free bike repair event at UW-La Crosse, where trained mechanics helped residents prepare their bicycles for increased use as an alternative to driving.
     
  • Opportunity Wisconsin partnered with Bikes Limited to host the tune-up event, offering brake and tire inspections at no cost to participants.
     
  • The initiative responds to growing financial pressure from fuel costs that organizers say are pushing people toward more affordable transportation options.
     
  • “Costs keep going up in every direction and gas prices are becoming extremely unaffordable, and we don’t expect that to change any time soon — biking offers a practical sustainable alternative but only works if those bikes are road ready,” said Bryan Boland, La Crosse organizer with Opportunity Wisconsin.
     
  • For repairs requiring more extensive work, participants received cost estimates rather than on-site fixes.