A popular bike and scooter sharing service is continuing for at least another year in Syracuse. After months of delaying a vote, common councilors Tuesday approved a contract extension with VeoRide.
Veo has seen steady growth in ridership since it first came to Syracuse in the fall of 2021. Last year alone, it reported about a half million rides on more than 1,000 bikes and scooters. Deputy Commissioner of Neighborhood and business development Eric Ennis said Veo has been very receptive to the council’s concerns, including a focus on equity.
“Opportunity zones will actually have a reduced discounted fare for bikes and scooter rides that will start in these locations," Ennis said. "In addition to that, there is going to be a greater emphasis on making sure people are registering and participating in the access program or in that equity program.”
Data collected by Veo shows it’s become an affordable transportation option for those who can’t afford a car, as well as commuters. At least 25 percent of Syracuse residents don’t own a car. Veo Director of Government Partnerships Jeff Hoover said they’re introducing a commuter membership plan that targets those users.
“It enables two trips every day of the week for a flat rate," Hoover said. "So it's a way for like the really heavy users, especially folks who may not have a car to access our system in a really cost effective way, especially relative to that actually almost puts it on par with Centro.”
One of the most common complaints about the scooter share program is where they're parked after a ride. Turns out Syracuse is one of the first cities where Veo is deploying a new technology to hold users more accountable. Councilor Marty Nave said there have been many issues in his northside district.
“Multiple dumping on someone's lawn, dumping on their driveways and they can't get out. I get a lot of complaints," Nave said. "We had nine on the lawn of my church. Nine of them.”
There have also been complaints about scooters blocking sidewalks. Veo has also agreed to a revenue sharing component in the contract extension, as well as an increased emphasis on rider safety.
