95.3 / 88.5 FM Grand Rapids and 95.3 FM Muskegon
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Lower rates and free helmets: Veo takes over Grand Rapids micromobility contract

Max Gilles (left) stands with his team as the city announces its transition from Lime to Veo as Grand Rapids' micromobility vendor.
David Limbaugh
Max Gilles (left) stands with his team as the city announces its transition from Lime to Veo as Grand Rapids' micromobility vendor.

Grand Rapids residents and visitors have a new option for getting around downtown as Veo e-scooters and e-bikes are replacing Lime as the city’s micromobility vendor

“Grand Rapids adopted a single-operator program when we launched our shared micromobility program back in 2022.”

Max Gilles is Strategic Initiatives Manager for Mobile GR, the city’s transportation, mobility, parking and curb management department.

“So, after three great years with Lime, we had a competitive process and Veo was selected through the process.”

He says Veo’s standing and sitting scooters and trikes are more affordable.

“The standard rate currently is $1 to unlock with our Lime provider and 36 cents per minute, and the new proposed rate is $1 to unlock and 33 cents per minute.”

The new Access Rate saves riders money.

“The current access program is 50% off the standard rate and the new proposal is for $5 a month. That includes 30 free minutes each day and 50% off riding beyond that threshold.”

Since 2022, more than 400,000 unique riders have taken over 1.9 million trips through downtown. Veo is aiming to have 500 units available this year, with upwards of 2,000 by spring. Veo will also provide riders a free helmet.

Lime units will still be available through September, giving riders the opportunity to make a smooth transition to Veo.

For a weekly dose of news right to your inbox, sign up for the WGVU newsletter.

Dave joined WGVU Public Media in November of 2023 after eighteen years as a Michigan Association of Broadcasters Emmy-nominated photojournalist and editor at Grand Rapids' WOOD TV8 and three years at WEYI TV25 in Flint, Michigan. As a General Assignment Reporter, Dave covers daily news and community events all over West Michigan.
Related Content