Toward Equitable Micromobility: Lessons from Austin E-Scooter Sharing Program

Abstract: This study examines the societal impacts of E-scooters on disadvantaged populations in Austin, Texas. Through a population distribution analysis, it compares E-scooter use opportunities and space intrusion burdens among four vulnerable groups. Minority populations experienced fewer E-scooter use opportunities, with a disproportionate wait time for disturbance resolution. Ten percent of the low-income population faced disadvantages in high opportunity areas with moderate burdens. Twenty percent of the physically disabled population encountered moderate-level burdens. However, inequitable outcomes for the elderly population were not significant.