TO: Mayor and Members of City Council
THRU: Kelly Olivera - Assistant City Manager
FROM: Chris Cauley, MPA - Economic & Community Development Director
Taurus L. Freeman, MPA - Asst. Economic & Community Development Director
DATE: April 10, 2023
RE:
Title
Adoption of the Shared Active Transportation Program (Micro-Mobility: electric scooters/bikes) Text Amendment to Article VIII of the Code of Ordinances
end
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S):
Council District(s)
All
b
Relationship To Strategic Plan:
Strategic Operating Plan FY 2022
Goals 2026
Goal II: Responsible City Government Supporting a Diverse and Viable Economy
• Objective 2.4 - To sustain a favorable development climate to encourage business growth
Goal IV: Desirable Place to Live, Work and Recreate
• Objective 4.3 - To improve mobility and connectivity through sidewalks, trail, and bike lane investments
Executive Summary:
City Council is asked to adopt a text amendment to Article VIII of the Code of Ordinances to create a one year pilot of the Shared Active Transportation Program.
Background:
In August 2018, the City Council heard a request regarding bike sharing at the Work Session. At that time, a bike-sharing program was being utilized at Fayetteville State University, which subsequently ended in 2019.
On April 6th, September 7th, and November 22nd of 2021, the City Council received presentations regarding the Shared Active Transportation Program. At the latter, the City Council directed Staff to draft an ordinance for consideration.
Several cities in North Carolina, such as Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte, have enacted local laws pertaining to motorized scooters and electric-assisted bicycles. Some cities have banned scooters/bike share entirely, while others have allowed them. Most municipalities polled in North Carolina thus far have not adopted an ordinance.
The vehicles can encourage multi-modal access to specific areas/districts, events, and the downtown. In addition to walking, driving, using bike racks, and electric vehicle charging stations, a micro-mobility program could provide additional transportation means to the public. Yet, public safety, liabilities, the minimum age to ride, and traffic guidelines are just some of the concerns.
The City Council can enact rules and regulations for the program with the passage of the proposed ordinance that allows for multi-modal transportation in the city.
Issues/Analysis:
In an effort to control micro-mobility vehicles in the city, Staff has drafted an ordinance to allow the use of electric-assisted bicycles and motorized scooters. The following are key elements that have been addressed in the proposed ordinance:
• Defines set parameters for potential vendor(s);
• Limiting the number of vendors/scooters in the city limits;
• Require formal application/permit process for possible vendors;
• Hours of operations;
• Age requirement;
• How to staff/manage at the city level;
• Penalties against vendors civil; and/or
• Enforcement and violations.
Several departments, such as the Public Services, City Attorney’s Office, and Economic & Community Development, provided input in the drafting of this ordinance.
Budget Impact:
None. Micro-mobility programs are typically instituted by vendors that provide their vehicles and associated maintenance at no cost to the City.
Options:
1. Adopt the Ordinance for Shared Active Transportation System for the period of one (1) year. In June 2024, the action will be reintroduced to continue the program or rescind the pilot;
2. Do not adopt the ordinance and provide direction to staff.
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends the adoption of the Shared Active Transportation System for the period of one (1) year. In June 2024, the action will be reintroduced to Council for consideration to continue the program or rescind the pilot.
Attachments:
• SATS Ordinance
• Presentation