e-Scooter company Bird is set to expand its service in New York and Washington, DC.
The company will be doubling the size of its shared e-scooter fleet in New York and increasing its operations in the US capital.
This news is reflective of Bird’s strong start to life in New York and Washington. In the Big Apple, for example, average ridership increased by nearly 70% in March compared to February.
It also coincides with New York’s Department of Transport’s plan to move into the second phase of its e-scooter pilot. This next phase will double the program’s footprint in the Bronx to serve an increased number of residents and visitors.
“This administration is committed to reducing our dependency on automobiles and more equitably delivering services across the five boroughs,” said Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.
“Our e-scooter pilot in the Bronx has been a remarkable success and we’re excited to bring it to even more residents in need of alternate forms of transportation.”
“Ridership in the Bronx has been incredible, demonstrating the very real and complementary benefits that micro-electric transportation can bring both to residents and established transit services in New York City,” added Renaud Fages, Chief Mobility Officer at Bird.
“We commend the NYC DOT for expanding the availability of e-scooters into more neighbourhoods, and we look forward to continuing our work with them to ensure the program has a positive impact on all New Yorkers.”
Daily average ridership in Washington hasn’t increased quite as much – only managing 48% in March compared to February – but the company hopes that elevated gas prices and improving weather conditions will help persuade commuters to leave their cars at home and off the Beltway.
Similarly, easing COVID restrictions are allowing for more business and leisure trips, hopefully increasing the number of people visiting New York and Washington without their cars for short periods of time.
