Calgary Transit passengers can now enjoy free electric scooter and bike rides at select LRT stations, thanks to a new initiative by Bird Canada and Neuron Mobility. The program, which launched recently, provides 10-minute complimentary rides from eight CTrain stations along the Red and Blue lines.
Details of the Free Ride Program
Following a pilot project in 2023, Bird Canada and Neuron Mobility are funding the service under new five-year permits. The companies have operated in Calgary since 2019 and 2021, respectively, and were awarded the permits through a competitive request for proposal process.
To access the free trip, customers must download the company's app to start and stop their ride. After the initial 10 minutes, regular fees apply. The program aims to provide Calgarians with additional transportation options to and from select transit stations.
Station Locations and Fleet Details
Bird Canada's silver-colored fleet will be stationed outside Heritage, Southland, 45th Street, and Crowfoot stations along the Red Line. Neuron Mobility's distinctive orange scooters and bikes will be available at Barlow-Max Bell, Franklin, Rundle, and Saddletowne stations along the Blue Line. Dedicated parking spaces have been set up at these stations to reduce clutter and ensure pedestrian pathways remain clear.
Extension of a Successful Pilot
The program is an extension of a 2023 pilot that offered free rides at three LRT stations over four months. A customer survey after the pilot revealed that more than 70% of users reported increased use of Calgary Transit due to the availability of free e-scooters and e-bikes at CTrain stations.
Andrew Sedor, mobility initiatives leader for the city, noted that the pilot demonstrated the need for dedicated pick-up and drop-off spaces to avoid blocking pedestrian paths or transit operations. The new program incorporates these lessons.
Rules and Regulations
E-scooters are permitted citywide on designated bike lanes, pathways, empty sidewalks, and roadways with lower speed limits and traffic volumes. They are not allowed on busy thoroughfares like Macleod Trail. E-bikes can be used wherever regular bicycles are permitted and must follow the same rules.
Bird Canada and Neuron will review photos uploaded by users at the end of each trip to ensure devices are not blocking sidewalks or wheelchair ramps. Improper parking can result in fines from the permit operators. Under city bylaws, a $400 fine can be imposed for reckless operation or collisions, and a $75 fine for riding an e-scooter simultaneously with another person.
