Bird scooters return to Medicine Hat offering a fun and alternative travel option for fifth year

“I think everybody looks forward to seeing them. They’re just a nice, convenient, and fun way for people to get around,” Kennedy said.

“It’s an alternative to traditional transportation, like cars, in terms of trying to get downtown, or to some of our parks, or interesting areas throughout the city,” she added.

“It’s something that people will often do, just as an activity in a day, the same as they might choose to go for a walk, or choose to go for a bike ride.”

Users must download the Bird mobile app to locate and unlock scooters, which are equipped with GPS to show permitted riding and parking areas.

The scooters have a maximum speed of 20 kilometres per hour, with reduced limits of 10 to 15 km/h in high-traffic zones.

Some areas, including busy downtown sidewalks and skate parks, are restricted entirely, with scooters programmed to slow or shut down if riders enter those zones.

Kennedy said safety remains a key focus as riders must be at least 16 years old, helmets are strongly encouraged, and only one person is allowed per scooter at a time, while also urging users to be mindful of others when riding and parking.

“We just always ask that the scooters are kept clear of driveways and sidewalks, anywhere that other people might need to access,” Kennedy said.

Scooters can be parked in most areas as long as they do not obstruct traffic or pedestrians, with the app providing guidance on appropriate locations.

by Jett Schwaier

Bird scooters return to Medicine Hat offering a fun and alternative travel option for fifth year

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