Denver advances proposed e-scooter contract
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After multiple delays, Denver inched closer to rolling out its new shared scooter and e-bike program with Veo, which wants to deploy its sizable fleet onto city streets.
Why it matters: The Denver City Council delayed the deal over concerns, including that the switch could disrupt service for low-income riders.
Driving the news: The new contract will make rides cheaper, more accessible and more flexible for low-income residents, the city's transportation department says.
By the numbers: Veo will pay the city $245 per permitted vehicle, with a proposed 9,000-unit fleet including five models that would generate roughly $2.2 million annually.
- Riders will pay $1 to unlock a vehicle and 25 cents a minute. Income-qualified riders will get a bigger discount, including 60 free minutes per day, then 15 cents per minute afterward.
How it works: If approved, the deal would allow Veo to start deploying its e-bikes and scooters on May 1.
- The contract will overlap with Lime and Bird's current agreement, which expires May 16, though city officials say they're working to ensure it doesn't result in city streets littered with vehicles from three vendors.
- Veo's competitor suggests the vendor changeover could disrupt rides for work and access to essential services, per a February statement from Zach Williams, regional head of government relations at Lime.
Between the lines: City staff on Wednesday said Veo riders can immediately use its "access" discount program, which offers free and reduced fares to qualifying users, including those already enrolled in Bird and Lime's low-income programs.
- More than 1,300 people have already signed up for Veo's program, DOTI strategic adviser Alaina McWhorter said Wednesday.
Caveat: While riders can initially self-certify, eventually they'll need to verify their eligibility to ensure they can continue receiving the benefit.
What's next: A final vote from the council is expected April 27.