Carbondale celebrates three years of micro mobility with Veo scooter program successes

Carbondale's City Council meeting on May 27, 2025, highlighted the ongoing success and future plans for the city's electric scooter program, which has been operational for three years. City staff, along with representatives from Veo, the company managing the scooters, presented an overview of the program's achievements and challenges, emphasizing its role in enhancing alternative transportation options for residents.

Since its launch in July 2022, the Veo scooter program has seen significant usage, with over 139,000 rides recorded in the past year alone. This translates to an average of 4,052 rides per week, showcasing the program's popularity among residents and students alike. Notably, 68% of riders reported using the scooters for commuting to work or school, indicating that the service is filling a vital transportation gap in the community.

The City Council discussed the importance of micro-mobility in addressing transportation needs, especially following the decertification of the Carbondale-Marion urbanized area, which resulted in a loss of federal funding for local transit services. The council's commitment to promoting a bikeable and scooter-friendly environment aligns with the broader goals outlined in the city's sustainability action plan.

In response to the program's growth, the city and Veo have signed a memorandum of understanding to extend their contract until November 2025, allowing for adjustments to improve the service. This includes implementing an access program that offers reduced rates for low-income riders, which has already enrolled 60 participants.

The meeting also addressed safety and compliance, with the city increasing fines for violations of scooter usage rules. The average number of violations reported weekly stands at 30.4, indicating a need for ongoing education and enforcement to ensure safe riding practices.

As Carbondale continues to adapt its transportation infrastructure, the success of the Veo scooter program serves as a model for integrating alternative mobility solutions into the community, ultimately enhancing accessibility and convenience for all residents. The City Council's proactive approach reflects a commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Carbondale's diverse population.