To prevent the abrupt removal of all VeoRide electric scooters from the streets on Friday, March 14, the City Council unanimously approved a three-month extension of VeoRide’s service contract.
VeoRide’s Astro stand-up e-scooters have become a convenient, affordable, and fun option for zipping around the city. Since the service launched in October 2020, over 1,200,000 trips have been made, with a single peak day recording upwards of 3,800 rides.
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The City Council vote comes as the current contract was set to expire on March 14, which would have created a disruptive gap in service. “This is a necessary move,” says Council Member Gina Driscoll, noting that the scooter service is especially beneficial for her District 6 constituents.
St. Pete’s micromobility options may improve
Don’t worry—scooter services aren’t disappearing once the three-month extension expires. The marketplace for such services has become increasingly competitive since the initial contract was approved in 2020. This extension gives the city more time to evaluate alternative proposals that could enhance St. Pete’s micromobility initiatives and improve the overall user experience.
In 2023, the city’s longstanding contract with Coast Bikes expired, paving the way for the introduction of Lime bikes. That change increased availability while lowering service costs, saving the city an estimated $50,000 annually. A similar provider shift for scooter services could be equally advantageous.
Know before you ride
To use the e-scooters in St. Pete, riders need to download the Veo app. The current VeoRide scooters can reach speeds up to 15 miles per hour, costing $1 to start and between 33-37 cents per minute. Riders can only end their ride within the designated geofenced service area and must park upright in designated zones. If you park in a prohibited area, you won’t be able to end your trip—and you may incur a fine. To learn more and download the app, visit VeoRide’s website.
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