Creating a safe, well-connected community with a variety of affordable transportation options is an important part of our vision for Providence. Our Shared Micromobility Program builds toward that vision and currently includes both electric scooters and electric bicycles. The program enhances existing transportation options by providing an easy, low-cost solution that connects riders to the first and last miles of their commute.
Cities throughout the world have programs where people can rent electric scooters (e-scooters) and bikes for short durations. In Providence all riders are required to have a valid driver’s license.
How did we get here?
The Providence program started Fall 2018 with scooters and bikes managed separately. Today, the Shared Micromobility Program includes both e-scooters and bike share. Spin, Bird, and Veo are the City’s current permitted providers and all three offer scooters and bikes.
Permitted operators are responsible for meeting requirements specific to safety, distribution, maintenance, operations, parking and data sharing as outlined in DPW regulations.
The City of Providence welcomes feedback on the Shared Micromobility Program. Input can be provided directly to micromobility@providenceri.gov.
How do the e-scooters and bikes work?
- Download the Bird, Spin, and/or Veo app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
- Use the company’s app to find and unlock a bike or scooter near you.
- Park and relock your bike or scooter when you finish your ride. When you park, be sure to leave a clear path wide enough for people in wheelchairs and with strollers to get by.
What if I don’t have a smartphone or credit/debit card?
All companies provide options for riders without a smartphone, credit card or both. You will need a mobile phone with the ability to text. For further instructions or to ask questions please contact:
- Bird by phone at 1-866-205-2442, e-mail at access@bird.co or visiting Bird Access.
- Spin Support by phone at 1-888-262-5189, email at support@spin.pm or by visiting Spin Access.
- Veo by phone at 855-836-2256, or by visiting Veo Access.
Do the companies offer discounted rates?
Bird Access, Spin Access and Veo Access, all offer a variety of discounted ride rates to users with limited incomes. If you do not have access to the internet, please call:
- Bird: 1-866-205-2442
- Spin: 1-888-262-5189
- Veo: 855-836-2256
Where can I ride?
E-scooters and bikes may be operated on sidewalks or in the roadway. On sidewalks or blocked-off streets, go slow and yield to pedestrians. On roadways or bike lanes, follow the rules of the road (e.g. stop at traffic lights, do not operate under the influence) and ride no more than two (2) abreast. Riders must obey traffic laws and are encouraged to wear helmets. These regulations are subject to change.
Where can I park my bike or scooter when my ride is finished?
When your ride is finished, park your bike or scooter in a location that does not impede a pedestrian walkway. Bikes must be locked to a fixed object and scooters need to be upright. Appropriate places to lock your bike include:
- Bike hub
- Publicly accessible bike rack
- Street sign
- Parking meter
Scooters should be parked upright near the sidewalk curb, with a minimum 4-foot path for pedestrians to get by.
When parking your bike or scooter, do NOT block:
- Curb ramps
- Fire hydrants
- Building entrances
- Driveways
- Crosswalks
- Bus stops
- Benches, parking meters, and other street furnishings
- Shared use paths (e.g. the Woonasquatucket Greenway)
When can I reserve a bike or scooter?
e-Bikes and scooters are available for rent between 5:00 am and 10:00 pm, account for rental times when making your plans!
Are there age restrictions on who can reserve a scooter or bike?
Yes, all companies require riders to be at least 18 years of age.
How do I provide input on the Shared Micromobility Program?
The City is interested in hearing from you about how you think the program is going. Please feel free to provide input by email to micromobility@providenceri.gov.
Data
How do I contact Bird, Spin or Veo to share feedback or report an issue?
All scooters and bikes in the City are required to have 24/7 customer service contact information displayed directly on the device. Also, please note that per City permit requirements, any scooter or bike reported for being parked incorrectly is required to be promptly re-parked in a correct manner or removed by the operator within two hours of receiving notice.
- Bird by phone at 1-866-205-2442, e-mail at access@bird.co or visiting Bird Access.
- Spin Support by phone at 1-888-262-5189, email at support@spin.pm or by visiting Spin Access.
- Veo by phone at 855-836-2256, or by visiting Veo Access.
You can also utilize 311 to share your feedback or issue with the Mayor’s Center for City Services.
Micromobility Application Zone Map Micromobility Policy Summary Micromobility Draft Permit Micromobility Regulations Micromobility Response Time Micromobility Rubric