Disability advocate speaks out about controversial e-scooter program that may return to Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh may be forced to re-launch the e-scooter program just weeks after multiple lawsuits were filed by injured riders. Some are wondering why the resources aren’t being invested into bike stations – a program deemed successful.

“It’s so frustrating to find the scooter on the sidewalk because there is literally nothing I can do,” said Alisa Grishman, Founder of Access Mob Pittsburgh.

Grishman uses a wheelchair to get around the city and says while the e-scooter program was operating - her commute was more difficult, trying to avoid scooters carelessly left behind.

So, she was frustrated to learn that the e-scooter program would be returning.

“This is about bringing in some high-tech gimmick, it hurts. A lot of people are justifiably very angry about this,” Grishman said.

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives adopted legislation that would force the city to run another pilot program.

The program will no longer need Mayor Ed Gainey or the City Council’s approval. The e-scooter amendment was added to the state budget bill by the House majority leader, State Rep. Matthew Bradford (D-Montgomery), and mandates the mayor to issue an executive order by Dec. 31, 2023.

Council members will have the ability to set certain guidelines like:

• Scooters can’t go faster than 15 mph.
• They’ll be banned from major highways.
• And the scooter company will be held accountable for making sure abandoned scooters are collected.

“I’d like to see a lot more accountability there in terms of consequences, fines and otherwise,” said City Council member, Barb Warwick.

But Warwick said even with all of those changes she thinks the city should be focusing on expanding the city’s bike share program.

“It’s more accessible you can ride an e-bike if you are 15 years old to 105, and that isn’t harming anybody right,” Warwick said.

Grishman agrees with Warwick.

“They are working with and for the community to find ways to make it more equitable as opposed to ignoring us,” said Grishman.

Channel 11 reached out to the mayor’s office about the relaunch of the e-scooter program and they said they are thankful for the funding to continue the work while addressing issues identified by residents.

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