E-scooters are back in the capital for a fifth year kicking off the unofficial start of summer. Bird Canada and Neuron Mobility have partnered with the city to put out 1,000 scooters all over Ottawa for people to have access to. To use the scooters, there’s an app to be downloaded. “To walk on the sidewalks in the city, it could be kind of far. It’s pretty convenient, efficient and easy to set up too. Just scan the QR code and download the app,” said Adan Diaz, a tourist and an e-scooter rider. “Easy to get around the city, a lot of stuff. It’s quicker with time and obviously I’m here for a trip, so I want to visit the city,” said Timothy Connolly, a tourist. People around the city say they are happy they are back heading into summer and it’s a great way to get outside. “It’s easy to use for people who don’t have cars and a lot of people don’t have cars,” said Khooje Oje, e-scooter rider. The city says tourism has picked back up in Ottawa and there’s a high demand. “It really has taken off big. I think we have the gold standard. We’re very strict. We’re probably one of the strictest cities when it comes to scooters for safety reasons, (and) for pedestrians alike. We have a really good program,” said Tim Tierney, Ottawa city councillor. “A lot of people are using them to get to work… We have more expanded times in certain areas. It’s restricted in other areas.” E-scooters cannot be ridden on sidewalks and must be parked correctly. Riders must be at least 16 years of age. A helmet is required for riders under 18 years of age. “They have a lot of new tools that have been incorporated now. Sobriety check after certain hours. You will have to sort of puzzle out to be able to ride the scooter If it detects that, you are erratic on it. It will just stop functioning altogether and you have to park it. Remember, if you don’t park it correctly, you’re going to continue to be charged for that scooter,” said Tierney.
