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Published on: February 25, 2013
Shared E-Scooter Trajectory Analysis During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Austin, Texas
Matthew D Dean1, Natalia Zuniga-Garcia1
1Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX.
The COVID-19 pandemic saw fewer shared electric scooter (e-scooter) trips, but average trip lengths increased. Analysis revealed shifts in e-scooter usage patterns, favoring roads with sidewalks and bus stops, indicating potential changes in user behavior.
Area of Science:
- Urban planning
- Transportation engineering
- Public health
Background:
- COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread stay-at-home orders and travel restrictions.
- These measures significantly impacted the transportation sector, including micro-mobility options.
- Shared e-scooters represent a key component of urban transportation networks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the impact of COVID-19 on shared e-scooter usage patterns.
- To identify changes in trip characteristics and road segment preferences.
- To provide insights for urban planners regarding vulnerable road user behavior.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of shared e-scooter route trajectory data from a single provider in Austin, TX.
- Comparison of pre-pandemic and during-pandemic travel periods.
- Application of a count model to average daily trips by road segment.
Main Results:
- Overall shared e-scooter trips decreased, influenced by market withdrawals.
- Average trip length increased during the pandemic.
- Increased usage on road segments with sidewalks and bus stops was observed.
- Usage shifted to roads with lower vehicle miles traveled and fewer lanes, suggesting cautious travel.
Conclusions:
- Shared e-scooter usage adapted during the pandemic, with longer trips and altered route preferences.
- Findings highlight a potential preference for safer infrastructure, such as segments with sidewalks.
- Data provides valuable information for cities designing infrastructure for vulnerable road users.
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