TITLE
Recommendation to receive supporting documentation into the record, conclude the public hearing, and adopt resolution amending the Master Fee and Charges Schedule by adopting new fees relating to the micro-mobility program;
Request City Attorney to prepare an Ordinance amending the Long Beach Municipal Code governing the use of shared micro-mobility, in accordance with existing state and federal laws, and staff recommendations detailed in this report; and
Extend the current Electric Scooter Pilot Program until the new Ordinance is adopted. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
In July 2018, staff initiated a short-term electric scooter (e-scooter) pilot program to provide additional mobility options for people living and working in Long Beach. This effort included the development of an e-scooter program guidebook (Attachment A), which outlines requirements for vendors seeking to operate in the City. Six vendors (Bird, Lime, Razor, Skip, Spin, and Uscooter) were approved for the pilot, limiting each to no more than 300 e-scooters, for a total limit of 1,800 e-scooters citywide. Deployment started in early August. Additionally, staff initiated a Customer Service Center, where residents could seek information, or express concerns about e-scooters in Long Beach.
Several key requirements were included in the pilot program to address safety and accessibility within the public right-of-way (ROW). Vendors were responsible for ensuring their users agreed to the following terms and conditions:
· Must be at least 18 years of age;
· Must possess a valid driver license;
· Must agree to the liability waiver;
· Must agree to comply with California Vehicle Code (CVC): No riding on sidewalks; Must wear a helmet; and,
· Must only park scooters outside of the sidewalk path of travel allowing a minimum clearance of four feet, in compliance with the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Additionally, vendors were required to:
· Limit the speed of scooters to 15 mph;
· Provide r...
Click here for full text