SHARED ACCESSIBILITY

Shared micromobility options — provided by companies like Bird, Lime and Neuron — are available in numerous communities throughout Alberta, including Calgary, Edmonton, Medicine Hat, Sylvan Lake and many other places in between. More people are now able to get from point A to point B — many of them opting for “last-kilometre travel” (think folks going from the restaurant to the stadium before a football game). It’s also a great option for vacationers who want to sightsee in an economical and environmentally friendly way. Dominic Schamuhn, AMA’s advocacy manager, says the evolution of personal mobility is underway, and micromobility allows people to have complementary options when it comes to getting around their cities. “If you’re meeting a friend at your neighbourhood coffee shop, maybe you’re cycling or using an e-scooter instead of driving or using a rideshare. It’s an evolving landscape, and it’s giving people more choice and flexibility in what mode of transportation is best for them as they go about their day. “The other thing that’s exciting with e-bikes and e-scooters is they’re for everyone, not just the young, so many Albertans of all ages are enjoying these options. For some, e-bikes have given them the ability to return to cycling and get back out on two wheels and explore the world with confidence.” Shared micromobility programs are creating accessibility by providing readily available and conveniently located e-bikes and e-scooters in many communities throughout the province. It’s nice to have an option that complements your car,” says Austin Spademan, who’s in charge of partnerships at micromobility share program leader Bird, which is Canadian-owned and Canadian-operated. Spademan emphasizes the convenience factor — you can rent an e-bike or e-scooter and park it at your destination. You can run errands, have lunch, and then just rent another one when you’re ready to return home. Shared micromobility programs aren’t just for big cities, they’re also thriving in smaller towns and mid-sized communities. According to experts in this sector, governments and other community partners need to focus on supporting micromobility, and that includes educating both users and drivers about safety. Whether you’re operating four wheels or two, it’s key to know the rules of the road and be aware of your surroundings.