The Atlanta Department of Transportation launched the first phase of the city’s 2020 Shareable Dockless Mobility Devices Program on July 1. The program will be deployed in four phases over the next few weeks, according to a press release.
The Atlanta City Council, on March 2, 2020, amended City Ordinance Number 20-O-1174, to limit the number of permits issued.
ATLDOT conducted a competitive permit application process resulting in the selection of four shareable dockless mobility device companies: Bird, Helbiz, Spin, and Veoride. Each company will offer stand-up scooters for rent. In addition, Helbiz will provide e-bikes and Veoride will offer sit-down scooters.
This process follows the City’s ongoing efforts to meet Atlantans’ evolving transportation needs, while also improving the safety of, equitable access to, and education about dockless mobility devices. Also, the phased approach prevents the oversaturation of operators and devices through improved compliance among existing permit holders.
“Atlanta, like many major cities, understands the need to present options of various modes of transportation,” said ATLDOT Commissioner Josh Rowan. “Dockless mobility devices are just one part of this equation. Our goal is to ensure we adhere to the input we received under our previous program and to improve our delivery in addressing the city’s transportation needs.”
Dockless mobility devices will be made available through a phased-in approach over four phases. The first phase will include the limited deployment of small fleet sizes, with fleet deployments increasing in size in the second and third phases. The fleet size deployment in the fourth and final phase will be adjusted based on operations and public health needs.
In response to COVID-19, each company is providing the city with an operations protocol, including a commitment to sanitizing devices regularly, implementing distancing protocols for staff, and communicating to customers the importance of following CDC guidelines. Operations will be monitored daily, with fleet size and staged implementation timelines adjusted should any public health concerns emerge.
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