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Micro-mobility Programs

Category: Improved Commuting, Transportation

Micro-mobility programs provide free or nominally priced rental options for traditional bicycles, electric bicycles or electric scooters. Micro-mobility programs can reduce the number of vehicle miles traveled by providing a carbon-free alternative for short distance trips. Bike-share programs are often coupled with bike maintenance programs to remove barriers to personal bike use. Rental periods can range from hourly, daily, weekly or even per semester. Programs can be managed by the campus directly, or by third-party partners.  Some systems use centrally located bike docking stations, while others work with smart-phone enabled dockless systems.

Benefits

  • Removes pressure to increase parking and traffic capacity 
  • Encourages exercise and well being
  • Visible commitment to campus sustainability

Challenges

  • No return on investment if modeled to be free to campus population
  • Bikes require routine maintenance and can be targets for vandalism
  • Unfavorable geography and climate can decrease program popularity
  • Helmet use is difficult to facilitate under many models

Impacts

  • GHG Impact

    Miniscule

    This is a solid but small strategy to reduce commuting related emissions.

  • Economic Impact

    Neutral

  • Feasibility

    Doable

    Each campus will have their own unforeseen barriers, but there are many successful models in action.

  • Timeline

    1-2 years

    Most campuses run a small pilot before rolling out a full-program. For-profit companies can deploy quickly once an agreement is reached.

  • Maintenance

    Moderate

    Requires staff or a third-party to oversee the program and to facilitate maintenance of stations bikes and/or scooters.

  • Publicity

    That's interesting

    Campus visitors, students, faculty and staff appreciate a free or low-cost bike share program. 

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