Scooters pass first step in approval process

The City of Miami Commission took a first step in approving a one-year motorized scooter pilot program for District 2 on Thursday. Coconut Grove is part of the district, along with Downtown Miami and Brickell. The ordinance, co-sponsored by District 2 Commissioner Vice Chairman Ken Russell and Mayor Francis Suarez, passed on First Reading. It will be scheduled for Second Reading at a later date.

The scooters had appeared on the streets in June and were removed just as fast due to lack of regulations.

“Today’s decision is an important step towards providing a safe and efficient transportation alternative for our residents,” said Mayor Francis Suarez. “As a forward-thinking city, I am encouraged by the Commission’s willingness to embrace an innovative solution to one of our most pressing issues – traffic and congestion. I look forward to this item passing on second reading, so we can prioritize safety as we work to roll out this first and last mile transit solution." 

"I'm in favor of many approaches to solving our traffic issues, particularly those that help fill the 'last-mile' gaps between neighborhoods and public transit," said Commissioner Russell. "This legislation allows scooters to operate under government regulation. It's a pilot program in my district and I'm excited to test this transit solution." 

The ordinance passed unanimously. Per the ordinance, the proposed pilot program will automatically terminate on October 31, 2019.