Red Deerians were happy to scoot around the city, according to a report that will be before city council on Monday.
Last year there were 109,245 e-scooter riders, and 36,707 total unique rider accounts. The average rider travelled 3.556 km and the average ride time was 22 minutes.
In July 2021, the city launched the first season of a two-year, three season pilot program for e-scooters.
Changes recommended by city administration include:
• Amending the Traffic Bylaw to allow for enforcement options where necessary.
• Create a plan with scooter companies for additional safety patrols and public events for awareness and education.
• Leave scooter numbers and company numbers as is and trial for one more season.
• Review the trail system with Parks and Public Works to have potential signage installed to identify sharp corners coming up or blind spots to help with education and slow riders down for those hazards.
Related:
E-scooter pilot program wraps up in Red Deer
The top e-scooter pick up locations were: Bower Transit Terminal, Capstone, Collicutt Centre, Great Chief Park/Kiwanis Picnic Park, Bower Ponds, Bower Mall, Veterans Park, Sorensen Parkade, Heritage Ranch and McKenzie Trails.
The top three compliments heard about e-scooters were that they brought more people to the downtown, e-scooter companies were great to work with, and e-scooters were fun to use and get people outside.
The top three complaints to e-scooter companies from customers were that they wanted a larger operating zone, longer season of operation, and the fees.
Changes recommended by the public included: addressing rider etiquette on the trails, lower user age to align with learners permits (14 years of age), having dedicated parking areas, less scooters so the city looks less cluttered, and consistent ride zones between companies.
A total of 13 injuries were reported.
Related:
Despite the rough ride, e-scooter companies are bullish on Canada
Last year e-scooters were on Red Deer streets until Oct. 31, and are set to return March 15, 2022 – or later, depending on when spring arrives.