Veo has mounted a campaign to extend its Pensacola scooter contract beyond the November 1st termination date set by Mayor D.C. Reeves, arguing that city survey data failed to capture the voice of actual riders who depend on the service.
- “We have heard from so far since our campaign over 750 riders since we launched it less than 24 hours ago,” said Celeste Brown, Veo’s policy and partnerships manager, during a podcast interview. “We’re hearing from folks that are using our vehicles to get to and from work to get around downtown, disabled veterans that are utilizing it as a means of transportation.”
Different Data
The company disputes the characterization that scooters primarily serve tourists, presenting data showing significant local usage. Using the billing zip codes, Brown said, “This year to date, we are at about 66,800 rides and nearly 30% of those have been by Pensacola residents.”
Brown criticized the methodology of the mayor’s survey. “The only thing missing is the voice of Veo riders. Like nearly 90% of the respondents to that survey don’t utilize Veo,” she said. “I think the 750 folks that we had reach out within the past 24 hours at least, should give us pause and give us all room to listen to residents.”
The company has seen consistent growth, with ridership jumping from 54,800 rides at this point last year to the current 66,800 rides. “We have seen an increase year over year, month over month in our ridership in Pensacola.”
Contract Extension
The company is now seeking a contract extension through the end of the year to facilitate community discussions. “What we’re asking for at this point is just an opportunity to extend the contract through the end of the year, so we can have these community conversations, have listening sessions, understand where folks are coming from,” Brown said.
Veo argues it serves essential transportation needs: “We want to continue to give access to folks whether they’re low income or don’t have access to a vehicle or just want an easy way to get downtown.”
