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The ScootCDTA program is scheduled to arrive in Saratoga Springs later this year.
The Capital District Transit Authority is introducing an electric scooter rental program in Saratoga Springs this summer.
The program, named SCOOT, would allow users to unlock scooters from racks throughout the city, similar to the existing CDPHP bicycle rental program. Users would create a membership for the program via a mobile app or the CDTA website, and rent scooters through the app.
Jonathan Scherzer, Director of Business and Development at the CDTA, promises that precautions are being taken to integrate the new vehicles safely into the community.
“We’ve done our due diligence, and continue to work with the community and our municipal partners to make sure we’re being safe out on the road, that we avoid the sprawl we’ve seen in similar larger cities,” he said.
Scooters will be treated as motor vehicles. They can only be driven on roadways, and must abide by all traffic laws. Only operators over 18 may create accounts to use the system. Generally, scooters do not require a driver's license to operate.
Certain “no-go” zones will also be created throughout the city.
“We know there are places that are just not intelligent” for scooter use Scherzer explained. When users enter a no-go zone, such as Congress Park, the scooter’s motor will turn off.
“Our goal is to provide management, to provide consistency, and safety.”
Before the program is fully implemented, the CDTA will be holding several closed course public demonstrations. Community members will be shown how to ride the scooters, and be taught the guidelines for using them in the city.
Saratoga Springs Mayor Ron Kim says that dates and times have not yet been announced.
Following feedback from these demonstrations, the CDTA plans to introduce SCOOT with three new racks.
Will Samulski, a Saratoga Springs local, says he’s looking forward to the program.
“I’ve been taking these buses for years now, hard to believe we might be getting something else. As long as people are safe out there, not just using them for fun, I think it could do a lot of good,” he said.
If SCOOT proves a success, the CDTA hopes to introduce other new mobility options.
In 2020, the CDTA tested Flex on Demand, a shared ride hailing service similar to Uber Pool. A pilot program was held in Mechanicville, Clifton Park, and Halfmoon. Now, the CDTA is considering the viability of introducing the service in Saratoga Springs.
Another potential program is CDTA Drive, an electric car rental service. The service allows users to rent electric vehicles from a drop-off point, where they then need to be returned after use. The CDTA currently has six of these vehicles operating in Albany.
“We see it as our responsibility to move people around the capital region,” said Scherzer. “Eventually, in the palm of your hand, you'll be able to order one of these services, you'll be able to pay for one of these services, and you’ll be able to utilize one of these services.”