Tampa is changing in a lot of ways. New neighborhoods. New buildings. And in just a few months, possibly a new program bringing a different way to get around.
“These are actually called dockless motorized scooters,” said Jean Duncan, director of Tampa’s Transportation and Stormwater Services Department.
The scooters could be zooming around by the beginning of next year.
That’s when three companies will set up shop in Tampa to try out the scooters as part of a pilot program.
If it catches on, the scooters will be here to stay.
“We have an opportunity to write an ordinance to allow them on sidewalks only,” Duncan said.
No roads. No bike lanes. But, some worry about safety and sidewalks becoming too crowded.
Places around the world have banned them claiming they’re too dangerous.
“I think it’s a great thing. We definitely always are concerned about safety. But, we definitely want to have other options for people,” Duncan said.
The scooters wouldn’t be allowed to travel over 15 miles an hour, but Tampa leaders may drop the speed to 8 miles an hour.
Technology aboard the scooters would keep them in designated areas.
City leaders will discuss changing the city ordinance to allow scooters on sidewalks at a meeting Thursday, Nov. 15, Duncan said.
