(NEWARK, NJ) -- On April 22, 2021, Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka announced the adoption of a new Municipal Ordinance that establishes a permit process for the operations of shared dockless bikes and scooters in the public right-of-way, clearing the way to bringing a new mobility option to residents of Newark.
NewarkGo, the City’s Shared Dockless Vehicle (e-scooter and e-bike) Pilot Program, aims to link residents to jobs, schools, housing, health care facilities, and other essential services. This will complement the use of public transportation and create attractive vibrant, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods where people can live, shop, work, and play without exclusively relying on automobiles.
“NewarkGo is designed by Newarkers, for Newarkers,” said Mayor Baraka. “By providing a new way of getting around our city, we can help people access new jobs and opportunities, better connect neighborhoods, and fill in the gaps in our transportation network. As we continue on the road to recovery, mobility innovations like this will help kick-start the economy and get people where they need to go safely, quickly, and affordably.”
With the adoption of this new ordinance by the Newark Municipal Council, the City establishes a six-month pilot program in which a maximum of 2000 Dockless Vehicle Permits will be issued to applicants that are approved and meet the City’s requirements. The application is available to review online and can be submitted via email to NewarkGO@ci.newark.nj.us beginning at 12:01 a.m. on May 11. To be considered for a permit, applicants shall comply with all requirements outlined in the permit application. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the City’s Ordinance and program rules and regulations.
No company shall operate any dockless vehicle or take any action in violation of city ordinances pertaining to dockless vehicles without first obtaining a valid permit issued by the Director of Engineering.
NewarkGo is designed to advance the following goals from Mayor Baraka’s Newark Forward Agenda:
* A Safer City: Promoting social distancing in the time of COVID-19.
* An Empowered City: Generating foot traffic for local businesses, encouraging connections to our vibrant neighborhoods, and expanding the range of opportunities for residents.
* An Equitable City: Providing a convenient and affordable transportation mode linking underserved populations to jobs, housing, and other essential services.
* A Collaborative City: Reducing road congestion, parking demand, and toxic emissions to enhance safety, promote walkability, and achieve sustainability.
The NewarkGo program was developed in collaboration by the City’s Department of Engineering and Department of Economic and Housing Development with valuable guidance from Bloomberg Associates.
