SPOKANE, Wash. — The LimeBike and scooter pilot program was a huge hit this fall, but to bring it back Spokane city leaders must made some amendments to city code.
In a two-month period, riders clocked nearly 150,000 rides and more than 100,000 miles through the LimeBike pilot program.
Now, the city of Spokane is trying to get a permanent program rolling. First, city leaders have to make a few amendments to city code to make sure it is safe.
One amendment is not requiring vendors to provide helmets, instead they would have to do outreach and education on safety.
Bike helmets would also be OK for riding scooters. Current rules require the use of a motorcycle helmet, according to a release from the city.
Another amendment would require people riding scooters or bikes to ride on the streets not the sidewalks in downtown.
According to the city, the proposed amendment would expand the area where bikes and scooters cannot be ridden on the sidewalk to include a section of downtown between Bernard and Division.
This is a problem for John Lemus. He primarily uses his electric scooter to get around downtown. Lemus said riding in the street is too dangerous.
"I was forced off the road by a driver a few weeks ago and it was scary,” Lemus said.
Lemus said he understands the potential issues with riding on the sidewalk as well. He suggested the city allow people to ride on the sidewalk up to a certain speed.
Lemus added that drivers may eventually get used to sharing the road with scooter riders like himself, but riding on the sidewalk should be an option. He would like to find a middle ground, he said.
"It's all about awareness and where you're driving. And making sure that you're going the right amount of speed for the place that you're riding in,” Lemus said.
