Technical Feasibility Findings

The key findings of the technical feasibility assessment are:

• E-bike share is a City priority: The Master Transportation Plan and the Active Network Transportation Plan identify the need for an e-bike share feasibility study, as well as noting the ways that a bike share system can complement other cycling infrastructure investments to help New Westminster achieve its sustainable transportation goals.
• Local and Provincial policies support shared micro-mobility: New Westminster has developed a policy environment that strongly supports active transportation, and other Metro Vancouver and Provincial policies are also supportive of including shared micro-mobility in initiatives and programs that encourage mode shift, increased mobility/access for underserved populations, and emissions reduction.
• There are potential partners in the region: TransLink’s 2050 Regional Transportation Strategy identifies the potential for a region-wide shared micro-mobility program, including the need to develop standards for safety, data collection and management, space and curbside allocation, fleet and operational requirements, and supporting infrastructure. New Westminster should monitor the development of any potential region-wide shared micro-mobility system, as well as peer city programs, and identify opportunities for collaboration across Metro Vancouver.
• A shared micro-mobility program should provide equitable access: Transportation equity is a key policy focus in local and provincial policies. An e-bike share program should serve all areas of the city and be inclusive to all residents, including people of all ages, abilities, identities, and backgrounds.
• E-scooters may be a future shared micro-mobility option: Current provincial regulations under the Motor Vehicle Act prohibit e-scooters in New Westminster. This limits the potential to explore an e-scooter share system or include e-scooters within a shared micro-mobility system, even though the Master Transportation Plan includes specific actions related to setting up parameters for a future program. The current pilot may be extended, or the Province could permit the use of e-scooters across the province. New Westminster should continue to monitor and engage with the Province to understand how the trial may further determine the use of e-scooters in New Westminster.