Durham’s Ride Sharing Program is providing residents and visitors with convenient transportation options through shared micromobility devices, including electric scooters and bicycles. Designed to bridge the first and last mile gaps in transportation, these devices offer greater access to essential destinations such as schools, jobs, healthcare, and grocery stores. As of August 2024, two operators—Spin and Veo—are authorized to provide these services under the City’s permit cycle, each allowed to deploy up to 600 devices at a time.
The program offers competitive pricing, with devices available for $1 to unlock and $0.39 per minute. Discounted rates and subscription packages, such as day passes and monthly memberships, cater to both occasional users and regular commuters. Access programs also ensure affordability for low-income residents, students, seniors, veterans, and others, with rates as low as $0.10 per minute.
Safety is a cornerstone of Durham’s micromobility initiative. Updated regulations from May 2024 emphasize responsible operation, including wearing helmets, obeying traffic laws, and avoiding sidewalks or greenway trails unless explicitly permitted. Companies are required to promote safety through in-app resources, community events, and by providing free helmets. Riders must also park devices responsibly, avoiding obstructions on roads, ramps, and public spaces.
The program also addresses accessibility. In August 2024, Durham introduced seated e-scooters to accommodate seniors, women, and individuals with mobility challenges. This addition enhances stability and comfort, making shared micromobility more inclusive.
Residents are encouraged to report issues such as improperly parked or damaged devices directly to the operating companies. Companies are obligated to address complaints within 12 hours on business days. Persistent issues can be escalated to city officials.
The program’s impact is monitored through the Durham Ride Report Mobility Dashboard, which provides detailed metrics on usage, trip distances, and travel patterns. Real-time data feeds from operators ensure transparency and support comparisons with global benchmarks via the Global Micromobility Index.
For questions or further information, residents can contact Emma Vinella-Brusher at 919-560-4366, ext. 36467, or via email. Durham’s commitment to enhancing mobility options demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to sustainable urban transportation.
