New Electric Scooter Program causing concerns – property abandonment, safety
Several neighbors have noted and reported that the new SPIN electric scooters have been found inappropriately left on sidewalks in the neighborhood. See photos (submitted by S. Weinberg).
There have also been concerns of zipping riders weaving along Bigelow, posing new challenges for drivers, pedestrians and bikers.
On 9/14/21, the Post Gazette had an oped piece about the issue. Pgh City Council will be having hearings soon, planning to draft legislation to regulate use.
https://www.post-gazette.com/opinion/editorials/2021/09/14/Rules-of-the-road-for-electric-scooters/stories/202109100033
Just a few pertinent points:
- City entered pilot program with scooter company SPIN on July 9, allowing 900 electric scooters to be available. Complaints quickly came in.
- Some of the issues: underage use, inappropriate use on roads, safety issues, abandonment of property.
- Anyone who has a complaint can call either to City ( 311 or MyBurgh app), or directly to company Spin ( support@spin.pm or 1-888-249-9698.) Each scooter has a large ID # and this should be part of report.
This issue will take a more time and thought, but reports of concerns are helpful to city council staff, who are working on appropriate legislation.
