Shared E-scooter Program
On June 3, 2022, SPIN launched a shared e-scooter pilot program in Downtown Columbia. SPIN is responsible for the maintenance and organization of its scooters within the permitted operating zone which includes Downtown Columbia, Oakland Mills, Wilde Lake, Harpers Choice and Hickory Ridge. The operating zone is geofenced, so SPIN scooters are not rideable outside of this zone. SPIN is providing marked parking corrals (currently 13 with more coming) to help organize and centralize the parking and distribution of scooters. The pilot is anticipated to last until Thanksgiving when adjustments to the permit requirements will be considered and advertising will begin for applications for 2023 permitting.
Although you can end your SPIN trip throughout the permitted scooter zone, parking your scooter in one of the corrals around Columbia earns you a credit towards your next ride. Not sure how or where to properly park? Watch this to learn more. Improperly parked scooters can be reported in the Spin app or by calling 1-888-262-5189.
BikeHoward Express outlines approximately $8 million in improvements paid from a mixture of County funds and grants.
The innovative and cost-effective BikeHoward Express consists of specific proposals to provide nearly 48 miles of improved bicycle infrastructure and builds on the ideas expressed by community advocates during recent years. Proposed infrastructure improvements have been selected from the Howard County Bicycle Master Plan and would include new bike lanes, designated shared roadways and shared-use pathways.
Key components of BikeHoward Express include the North Laurel Connections bicycle route from Savage to North Laurel, new shared-use pathways providing bicycle access into Downtown Columbia, Columbia Gateway and along Dobbin Road, and nearly 14 miles of bike lanes. Unified wayfinding signs throughout BikeHoward Express would provide for easy navigation. Additional community input will help determine the final details of bicycle infrastructure improvements.
Bike Howard is Howard County’s Bicycle Master Plan. It was adopted in April 2016 and developed with extensive input from the community, as well as many related agencies, in particular the Departments of Planning and Zoning, Public Works and Recreation and Parks. The Bicycle Master Plan provides guidance for both transportation and recreational bicycling, both on-street and off-street. Recommendations are provided in the general areas of infrastructure improvements, policy and programs.
Howard County is updating its 2007 Pedestrian Master Plan. The new Pedestrian Plan, WalkHoward: Moving Forward, continues efforts to improve walkability in Howard County. This Master Plan will address walking in all of its forms – whether you are trying to get somewhere or just taking a casual stroll somewhere you love.
Columbia Association’s mobile pathway application highlights CA’s 94 miles of pathways, facilities, lakes and village center buildings that CA owns and maintains.
This mobile app allows users to use a series of map tools to help make their outdoor experience more enjoyable. There is a “Locate me” GPS feature that will allow users to locate CA facilities, view photos and highlight a route for walking, running or biking to those facilities. App users can also obtain information about Columbia Association and contact us if they notice damage to tot lots or pathways.
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