Vision & Goals

New mobility strategies: Strategies for new mobility can be standalone approaches or consist of a series of related policies within different types of plans. Larger metropolitan areas may tend toward the standalone or more comprehensive approach, as Seattle did with their New Mobility Playbook. Mid-sized and smaller metropolitan areas may be best served with a selection or policies tailored to the unique needs of their communities.

New mobility pilot projects: Pilot projects for new mobility devices, management, and operations have been implemented in cities of all sizes. Having the opportunity to engage in a “trial run” of a new type of mobility service or technology can help shed light on unexpected benefits and drawbacks. Experiences and knowledge gained via pilot projects helps create policies that best suit specific needs and goals.

Policies and regulations for emerging technologies: Emerging technologies need to have policies and regulations around their use established. However, even if standalone policies are adopted for new mobility and emerging technologies, there are often other documents with related policies. Updating transportation system plans, climate action plans, economic development plans, and Vision Zero plans to include these new types of transportation and technologies will help to create and support a robust and comprehensive policy approach.

Data management: Good data management practices begin with understanding what types of data are most useful to have. New mobility providers typically have a vast array of data on their trips, riders, and services. Without narrowing down the types of data requested from these providers, the amount of data can be overwhelming, or even impossible, for some municipalities to process. Once the correct types of data are obtained, governing bodies also need to understand how to interpret, manage, and safely store this information.

Fiscal implications: The fiscal implications of emerging technologies can be numerous, and have the potential to significantly disrupt municipal finances. Some revenue streams, like parking fees, may decrease drastically, but new opportunities may arise to offset these losses. Approaching new technologies and services with an eye toward future revenue needs can help inform potential tax and fee structures for these services as they are first introduced in cities.