Halifax Micromobility Pilot Sees High Ridership as City Tackles Parking and Safety Challenges
Halifax is in the second year of a two-year shared micromobility pilot featuring about 600 Bird Canada e-bikes and scooters. The city ranks second in Canada for ridership, while enforcement tools including AI parking verification, fines, and rider scoring address rule violations.
Halifax is currently in the second year of a two-year shared micromobility pilot project that has placed approximately 600 Bird Canada e-bikes and scooters throughout the city. The program has generated significant usage, giving Halifax the second-highest ridership for shared micromobility in Canada, just below Calgary.
According to Bird Canada, e-bikes have outperformed scooters in the pilot, recording more than two rides per vehicle per day. Despite the high usage, the company reported 20 offences recorded for the year.
Halifax bylaws prohibit riding e-scooters on sidewalks. Operators are also restricted from exceeding 25 km/hour on roads or bicycle lanes and 15 km/hour on multi-use pathways. Violations carry a minimum fine of $50 for each summary conviction, which is enforced by municipal police.
To manage compliance, Bird Canada uses an "education first" approach. A first offence results in a written warning, while repeat offenders face fines or service suspension. The company also rates riders based on behaviors such as aggressive braking, speeding, or sidewalk riding, and low scores can lead to removal from the service.
Improper parking remains a challenge addressed through technology and operations. Bird Canada implemented an AI tool in the downtown core that prevents users from ending their ride until they park correctly. For mis-parked vehicles, the company aims for a 30-minute retrieval time using walking patrols and driving teams.
The Halifax Regional Council will decide on the future of the project after the operational year ends.