The City of Oshawa has announced that ride-sharing e-scooters and e-bikes will return on Monday, August 5, as part of its ongoing shared e-mobility pilot project.
This year’s program comes with several updates aimed at improving safety and accessibility. The number of devices will be reduced, and the service area will be more focused on high-demand locations. New designated parking zones and no-parking areas will be introduced to help keep sidewalks clear, said a city statement.
It said vendors will also be required to respond more quickly to complaints, enforce stronger restrictions on sidewalk riding, and improve user education. Additional staffing will be in place to ensure the program runs smoothly throughout the season.
Fatal Accidents
There have been a few accidents, including a fatal one, involving e-scooters and e-bikes (see below) since the introduction of the pilot program. The Town of Ajax too is running a similar program.
The program, operated by Bird Canada at no cost to the city or taxpayers, is part of a provincial pilot to assess whether e-scooters should be permanently permitted in Ontario. Oshawa council has extended the city’s participation in the program through 2027, following the province’s decision to extend the overall pilot until 2029.
Oshawa is reminding community members to ride safely and respectfully by following all e-mobility rules, including:
- Riders must be 16 years of age or older to use an e-scooter
- Helmets are required for riders under 18 and encouraged for all users
- Only one rider is allowed per e-scooter
- Maximum speed is 20 kmh
- E-scooters are not permitted on sidewalks or roads with speed limits over 50 kmh
- Riders must exercise caution around pedestrians and provide audible warnings when passing
- Devices must be parked upright and securely
- All Highway Traffic Act rules apply, with penalties up to $2,500
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