Arlington debuts eco-friendly electric scooter and bike rental program to boost urban mobility at UTA and downtown
Arlington, Texas – With launching a new electric scooter and bike rental service, the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) and Downtown Arlington are expected to become more vibrant and easily accessible starting this month. Beginning October 18, 2024, the one-year pilot program launched by UTA in association with the mobility business Veo promises to transform local urban transportation, offering an eco-friendly, quick, and entertaining approach for navigating the busy streets.
Aiming to provide a handy transport alternative for residents, visitors, and students, UTA chose Veo to start this project after a comprehensive competitive bidding procedure. The initiative is designed to improve connectivity between the 420-acre university campus and the abundance of entertainment, dining, and retail stores of Downtown Arlington.
Users of these electric bikes and scooters must download the Veo app and open an account. After a basic setup process, the app leads new users toward ride booking functionality. Whether it’s a leisurely journey to a downtown cafe or a short trip to a class on campus, these vehicles provide a quick and easy means of transportation. Defined inside the Micromobility Operational Area, the service area runs from Division Street to Collins Street along Park Row Drive and Fielder Road.
Rules and regulations
The Micromobility Ordinance of the City of Arlington and Veo’s terms and conditions guide riders and serve to guarantee the safety of all road users, including pedestrians. Electric bikes and scooters are handled legally under Texas state law as motor vehicles, hence they have the same obligations and laws to follow.
Users should decide which kind of car they would most be comfortable with before leaving. Ideal for people who have to carry personal goods, the electric bikes have pedals, a throttle, and a basket. On the other hand, the scooters are ideal for shorter, faster rides. Both kinds of vehicles have designated slow zones and no-ride zones imposed to improve safety; their maximum speed is just 15 miles per hour.
Bike and scooter parking is rather important. The Veo app helps consumers find allocated parking spaces so that the devices are parked properly and do not block public pathways, stairs, or doorways. Helmets are highly advised for all riders even though they are not required. The program also offers direction on handling the vehicles, including braking and turning signals.
Costs and membership options
The cost structure is meant to be simple to comprehend. Users of the Cosmo e-bike pay an unlocking fee plus a per-minute rate of $1 and $0.39 respectively. Aimed at making the service affordable with a $5 monthly subscription including free rides for the first 30 minutes each day, Veo also has membership alternatives such VEO+ for unlimited unlocks for $5.99 per month and the VEO Access Program.
The City of Arlington in partnership with UTA will actively monitor the program during the pilot year to make sure it efficiently satisfies the transportation needs of the community and complies with all laws. Additionally engaged is the Downtown Arlington Management Corporation, which works with nearby companies to assist the project and helps to manage parking options.
As Arlington looks forward to this exciting new chapter in urban mobility, the success of this pilot program could very well dictate the future of transportation within the city, making electric bikes and scooters a permanent fixture in Arlingtonâs transit landscape.
