Reviewed by: Pat Byington
New e-scooter company recommended by the Birmingham transportation committee
Reading time: 2 minutes
The Magic City is about to welcome a new electric scooter and bike company. Earlier this week, Birmingham’s City Council Transportation Committee approved an application by Lime, a company based out of San Fransico, to be the newest shared rental transportation business in town.
Lime e-scooter hits the streets
Lime, an electric scooter and bike company, offers its services in over 200 cities and 30 countries and is making its way to Birmingham. Earlier this year, one of the city-approved e-scooter companies, Gotcha, ceased operation and Lime is looking to take their place.
Christina Argo commented on her experience and expectations with Lime:
“Birmingham will be getting their latest lineup of e-bikes and scooters. I’ve had the chance to ride their newest version of e-bike and it is the cream of the crop.”
Christina Argo, Mayor’s Office
Birmingham City Council addresses the pushback
At the meeting, the chairman of the transportation, Darrell O’Quinn, noted concerns from the public with shared micro-mobility devices such as e-scooters and bikes. He listed the following problems:
- Found in poor condition (laying sideways + in streets)
- Electric charging issues
- E-scooter’s left in unmarked spots for days
- Pricing problems
O’Quinn was pleased to see that Lime has plans to address pricing concerns. For example, Lime has proposed a zone-based pricing plan. Riders in those zones will receive a 25% discount making it more available for everyone.
Argo has also committed to working with Lime and Veo, another e-scooter company in Birmingham, to address the issues of maintenance and other concerns.
The committee voted to recommend Lime’s application to operate the micro-mobility business in Birmingham. The measure now awaits a vote by the full council.
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