LOGAN is expected to be part of a statewide plan to de-clutter footpaths of e-scooters.
An e-mobility parking plan was today released by the state government which has taken control of an e-mobility parking working group.
The plan aims to improve the parking of e-scooters and other e-mobility devices, such as e-bikes, to ensure they are not left in a way which blocks paths and, creates safety and amenity issues for other path users.
Transport minister Mark Bailey said it was time to clean up our paths to create a more inclusive and accessible environment.
“E-scooters are a great way to get around, but too often I see them left in locations blocking paths which creates significant problems for people walking – especially those with limited mobility,” Mr Bailey said.
“I have had to move badly parked e-scooters out of the way on several occasions, which some people cannot do like people who use wheelchairs and those with vision impairments.
“For them, it’s more than a minor inconvenience. It can mean adding significant time to a trip to detour around a misplaced e-scooter.
“I urge Queenslanders to keep our footpaths and thoroughfares clear so every person can walk, ride and scoot freely.”
Mr Bailey said the e-Mobility Parking Plan had been developed by Transport and Main Roads in partnership with the e-mobility Parking Working Group, which includes representation from local councils and industry as well as disability and road users advocacy organisations.
“Under the Parking Plan, trials of parking infrastructure have already started, which you may spot the next time you’re at the local bus or trains station, and at key locations throughout the city,” he said.
“There will also be improved communication of expectations and further education opportunities, and we’ll investigate better reporting arrangements.”
Initiatives within the plan include:
- The expansion of designated e-mobility parking areas, like those popping up around the inner city
- Supporting better reporting of poor parking, especially to e-scooter providers
- Investigating regulation, including potential fines for those who improperly park a hire e-scooter
- Improved communication and education
Mr Bailey said some localised e-mobility parking trials were already underway.
“Lessons learned from these trials will be critical to informing future standardisation of parking infrastructure. I encourage all local councils to continue to roll out dedicated e-mobility parking trials to help users understand where to park their devices,” he said.
“It’s great to see some work underway already, but more must be done. The release of the Parking Plan signals a clear intent to roll out dedicated parking spaces for e-scooters and e-bikes as a priority.”
Longer-term actions under the Parking Plan include investigating standardised reporting mechanisms for poor parking as well as investigating whether there is a role for stricter regulation and road rules.
“I look forward to working with local councils and shared e-mobility providers over the next couple of years as we collectively aim to improve e-scooter parking in Queensland,” Mr Bailey said.
