The Interception of Parking and Mobility: A Vision Across Generations
When the inevitable question of why a parking authority is involved in micro-mobility comes up, my answer is simple: we cannot lead from the present, we need to plant the seeds for the future.
As more millennials and Gen Zs move into the Miami urban core, the modes of transportation they opt for are changing. Some choose to walk to work or adopt transportation modalities that are eco-friendly and economically sound. These modalities include the use of shared electric mopeds, free circulators, such as Freebee, e-bikes, and more.
Recent trend lines show us how hybrid work models after the COVID-19 pandemic are affecting parking, the choice of transit modes and, even, where we want to live, work and play. As people eschew traditional modes of transportation, they seek a better quality of life by living and working near transportation options. Hence, the multitude of transportation-oriented developments (TOD) that are springing up all around us.
As a parking authority, we must anticipate changes and work in a proactive manner; embrace innovation; and be nimble, adaptable, and prepared for a post-car era. In that same breath, we must share in the responsibility to move people by providing connectivity and access. Connectivity and access foster economic vitality and social prosperity.
Shared mobility, whether it is a moped, Freebee circulator, car- or bike-sharing services, is a means of facilitating people a reliable way to reach their destination. The adoption of these modes will ensure that the underserved individuals who do not own a vehicle can access gainful employment.
Just a couple of months shy of the unraveling of COVID, the Miami Parking Authority (MPA) engaged with the Revel electric shared mopeds. At the time, mopeds were viewed as a new modality to help Miamians bridge the first- and last-mile gap by providing them with a safe and reliable option.
While we could not predict what was looming, the Revel adoption ultimately paid enormous social dividends for the Miami community. As a socially committed organization, Revel swiftly stepped up to the plate to provide free rides to first responders in the height of the pandemic.
In the spirit of continuing to use its capabilities for the public good, Revel continues to offer a 50 percent discount to individuals who are eligible or actively participate in any local-, state- or federally-administered assistance program. In addition, military and veteran members receive a 40 percent discount across all rates.
Furthermore, the MPA launched and continues to sponsor the Freebee circulator in downtown Miami. Freebee continues to connect downtown employees working in restaurants, hotels, and other business sectors, thus allowing them to reach their places of employment without interruption, free of charge.
I believe that the parking business is amid a tectonic shift in the way it operates. For the MPA, the line of sight is clear: work collaboratively with our partners at the state, city, and county levels toward building a safer, more equitable and prosperous urban community where parking and transportation modalities are mutually inclusive.
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