Yes, micromobility riders and vehicle drivers must co-exist as Coquitlam expands its electric transportation options for local residents.
And there are rules regulated by the province interested commuters need to abide by.
The municipality recently introduced Neuron and Lime as its shared-service providers with a fleet of more than 300 e-Scooters and over 100 e-Bikes for local residents to use in the City Centre area.
It's part of a pilot project set to last 18 months as staff hope to see a significant reduction in local greenhouse gas emissions and an increased interest in energy efficient modes of transit.
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But while the program may appear to be cool, hip and Jetsons-esque, Coquitlam is reminding those wishing to use the electric-vehicle network that they should be used safely.
Where can I ride?
Coquitlam is the only Tri-Cities community where residents and visitors can use a micromobility vehicle.
The inaugural zone of City Centre includes north of Coquitlam Centre mall, as well as the Lincoln and Lafarge Lake–Douglas stations, Coquitlam Public Library, city hall, Town Centre Park and Douglas College.
All trips in the designated zone must start and end at parking stations that will be spaced about 200 m apart; outside the zone, riders can start and end their trips based on the dockless model.
E-Scooters and e-Bikes can go wherever bicycles are allowed, explained city spokesperson Angela Jarvis, including multi-use paths, bike or micromobility lanes, and other streets.
When a speed limit is under 50 km/h, riders must be as close to the right as possible on roads with no multi-use pathway.
When a speed limit is more than 50 km/h, riders must use their e-Scooter in designated cycle lanes.
Where can't I ride?
E-Scooters and e-Bikes are not allowed on Coquitlam sidewalks or park trails, Jarvis added.
And just like bicyclists, riders are also asked to dismount at crosswalks unless a traffic control sign or signal permits it.
Other rules of note include the following:
- Riders must be 16 years or older
- Driver's license not required
- Riders must wear helmets
- An e-Scooter must have a bell and lights
- Do not carry or tow passengers
- Obey traffic signs and signals
Motor vehicle drivers are encouraged to share the road with micromobility users "as the safety of people walking, biking and scooting on shared roads is your responsibility," said Jarvis.
Commuters must leave a minimum one-metre space when passing people on scooters and bikes, electric or otherwise.
For more information about e-scooters, you can visit the City of Coquitlam's website.
