Scooters are no longer allowed on sidewalks in Alexandria.
That was the outcome of the Saturday City Council meeting, when council voted to move forward with Phase II of the Dockless Mobility Pilot Program.
The Phase II Pilot Program will run through December 2020 with much stricter requirements, no sidewalk usage and new speed limits for street usage. The City is also strongly encouraging scooter riders to wear helmets.
Changes implemented during the first phase of the pilot program in 2019 have helped — there are fewer scooters along the waterfront thanks to geofencing and more people are using the available parking corrals.
Among the changes to scooter usage rules in 2020:
- No scooters on sidewalks in the City of Alexandria.
- Scooter companies must distribute scooters more equitably throughout the city, and must use parking corrals when they are available.
- One rider per scooter.
A Dockless Mobility Evaluation Report released by the City on November revealed five key findings. According to the report:
- Scooters have provided increased access and mobility in Alexandria.
- Scooters are a new form of mobility and safe riding is a concern.
- Improper scooter parking can disrupt the pedestrian right of way and impede ADA access.
- Scooters could improve transportation equity but new policy is needed.
- The program recouped costs but modifications to management will minimize City financial and staff resources.
Residents are invited to continue to email dockless.mobility@alexandriava.gov with feedback on scooter usage.
The popularity of scooters in Alexandria prompted Fairfax County to write its own regulations, including rules on usage. Learn more about scooters in Fairfax County here.
