Transportation more accessible in Newark

Electric scooters and bikes are becoming more common on the streets of Newark, a sign of the city’s shift towards providing more sustainable transportation options for residents. However, in a city where the median household income is about $37,000 per year, ride costs associated with these transportation alternatives can shut out low-income residents from accessing these services.

So when Bird Rides, a California-based electric bike and scooter micromobility company, teamed up with Newark officials in July 2021 to help launch the city’s first-ever shared bike and e-scooter pilot program, company officials wanted to ensure every resident had access to its services. In doing so, the company launched a Community Pricing Program to meet the community at its level by offering a 50% discount to low-income riders who apply for the program.

“Bird’s mission is to provide sustainable and reliable transportation for all,” Bird Chief Communications Officer Rebecca Hahn told TAPinto Newark.

“Our Community Pricing Program broadens access to our micro-electric vehicles, encouraging more individuals to replace gas-powered car trips whenever possible.”