We often throw around a lot of mobility-related terms and phrases in this blog. Terms like microtransit and rightsizing are words that are frequently used on our team, but are uncommon outside the world of transportation. As we prepare for the upcoming Suburban Mobility Summit, we wanted to dive into the idea of micromobility. In doing so we hope to provide some insight as to why we spend so much time working on and discussing these concepts.
What Is Micromobility?
Micromobility generally means using bicycles, e-bikes, electric scooters, and shared systems to help people get around developed areas as efficiently and eco-friendly as possible. It’s a very hot topic for urban centers around the world, where density can support a wide range of micromobility options. These solutions can present more of a challenge in a suburban setting such as Denver South, where we have less density and greater distances between destinations.
What Is Suburban Micromobility?
Suburban micromobility refers to transportation solutions and modes of travel that are designed to address the specific needs of suburban areas. It focuses on providing efficient and convenient transportation options for shorter distances within suburban communities. We’re leading the effort to answer some critical questions on the future of mobility and transportation with our upcoming Suburban Mobility Summit.
We asked Daniel Hutton, Director of Transportation & Mobility, for his take: “Unlike urban areas, where public transportation networks are more extensive and walking or cycling may be feasible for many trips, suburban areas are often characterized by lower population density, longer distances between destinations, and less developed infrastructure for alternative modes of transport. However, e-bikes, e-scooters, and smaller affordable vehicles are providing new ways of getting around the region and opening up new possibilities for commuters.”
In short, our suburban micromobility efforts aim to bridge this gap and offer sustainable and practical alternatives to traditional modes of transportation. Our long-term goal is to work with our jurisdictional partners to help provide residents, commuters, and businesses with convenient, affordable, and sustainable transportation options.
Micromobility and the Suburban Mobility Summit
The upcoming Summit is a key initiative in these efforts. It will provide the opportunity not just to hear from thought leaders on this topic, but also to connect with key stakeholders who will bring these efforts to life in Denver South. We are building collaborations and partnerships with local governments and companies that can provide micromobility solutions, such as Spin. Through data modeling and innovative partnerships, we can implement solutions that are safe and community- and environmentally-friendly.
From Daniel’s point of view: “Suburban mobility presents us with many new and interesting challenges. The Summit will focus on how these opportunities may impact our longer-term vision, as we work with local jurisdictions to help retrofit our transportation infrastructure to accommodate new modes of transit throughout the region.”
We aim to help our community, from businesses to local governments, envision a safe and connected transportation future by providing a third option, beyond driving and pedestrian, and rethinking how these systems can enhance the future of our communities. We know a flourishing micromobility network will be key to this future, as we seek to improve mobility (and therefore quality of life) in Denver South.
During the 2023 Denver South Suburban Mobility Summit (August 3rd), we’ll be exploring these new paradigms, hearing from thought leaders, discussing new ways of thinking about property development and infrastructure, and re-envisioning how some of yesterday’s “toys” are shaping tomorrow’s transportation system. Don’t wait–register today to secure your spot!
