The City of Santa Clara is partnering with two micro-mobility device companies to distribute e-bikes and e-scooters across the city.
It’s a part of the City’s Shared Mobility Program, launched in December 2021, which allows private operators to deploy shared mobility devices (bikes and scooters) in Santa Clara. The goal is to provide alternative and sustainable modes of transportation for residents and visitors to get to transit, shopping and entertainment areas.
E-bike company Bird has already received their permit to begin distributing 800 e-scooters and 200 e-bikes. City officials are also working with Veo to finalize permits that would allow them to launch their fleet of scooters and bikes this fall.
In total, Bird and Veo are expected to deploy 1,300 micro-mobility devices for use across Santa Clara. Users must download the Bird or Veo app and agree to the company’s rental agreements before being allowed to ride.
Some of those terms include following all traffic rules, wearing a helmet, and only riding devices in bicycle or vehicle lanes with the flow of traffic. In addition, bikes and scooters must be parked upright and in a manner that does not obstruct sidewalks, traffic, pedestrians, and emergency facilities, according to the City.
A full list of user guidelines can be found on the City of Santa Clara website.
Santa Clara is also launching a module for the MySantaClara app for the mobility program so that users can submit comments and feedback.
The Shared Mobility Program was approved after the City instated a moratorium on e-bikes and e-scooters in 2018, which bought Santa Clara officials time to come up with official guidelines.
More information on the City’s Shared Mobility Program can be found here.