How does this reach residents in Neighborhoods of Focus?
The Neighborhoods of Focus(PDF, 2MB) consist of 17 Census Tracts with higher poverty, higher unemployment and lower rates of educational attainment than elsewhere in the City. They were originally determined in 2016 by research funded by the Kellogg Foundation.
The pilot service area covers 74% of the Neighborhoods of Focus. For those residents living in Neighborhoods of Focus and throughout the city meeting certain income requirements, user fees are 50% of the standard fees.
To be eligible for discounted rates, provide proof of enrollment in city, state, or federally funded programs such as SNAP EBT, TANF, WIC, and HUD Housing Choice Section 8 Vouchers.
User Fees
- All companies will offer the stand-on e-scooters and e-assist bicycles at the same price ($1 to unlock plus 15 cents per minute).
- The City of Grand Rapids is working with the pilot vendors to provide low-cost or free options for those who need them. Provided below are some reduced fare options.
- All companies offer qualified persons, who participate in the below programs, access to 50% off the unlock and per minute use fees: SNAP, TANF, WIC, HUD and similar programs.
Access for Unbanked People
All companies assist people without bank accounts in obtaining reloadable debit/credit cards. Funds can then be added to the cards to rent scooters and bikes.
Access to Persons with Disabilities
Vehicles appropriate for persons with various disabilities are not readily available with most shared scooter and bike services. Other systems have accommodated persons with disabilities by partnering with adaptive bicycling organizations. Some of the newer micromobility vehicles, like the seated scooter and e-assist trikes may allow more people to use a system, but they’re not specifically adaptive vehicles.
Language Options
English and Spanish language options are available on the Spin platforms.