New Company Approved To Bring E-Scooters, E-Bikes To Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Alexandria will see more motorized scooters and bikes roll into town with the approval of a permit to a new company. Helbiz joins Lime, Bird, Razor and Spin in being allowed to operate in the City of Alexandria.

According to WTOP, Helbiz plans to bring 200 e-scooters and 200 e-bikes to Alexandria.

Companies were required to sign the city's 2020 memorandum of understanding, updated for the phase two pilot program for dockless mobility devices. The phase two program, which runs through Dec. 31, 2020, added a ban on sidewalk riding throughout Alexandria. Riding is permitted on streets, bike lanes and certain trails. The speed limit for street riding is 15 mph.

The devices can be parked on sidewalks, but they must not block pedestrian or ADA access and cannot be on private property. They should be parked in a way that doesn't block access to sidewalks, ramps, entrances to buildings, fire hydrants, bus stops, parked cars, travel lanes and driveways. The city has parking corrals in Old Town designated for the devices and will look to add more locations.

Concerns about improper parking should be reported directly to the companies.