Complementary or Competing? Studying the Relationship between E-Scooter Sharing and Bikesharing in Austin, Texas

Abstract

The correlation between e-scooter sharing (ESS) and docked bikesharing (DBS) remains ambiguous. This study compared usage patterns between the two modes in Austin, Texas, aiming to unveil their evolving relationship. To account for nonlinear effects, generalized additive mixed models were employed. The findings indicate that both ESS and DBS programs achieved success in densely populated urban areas, areas with younger and higher-income populations, as well as on university campuses. However, a one-sided competitive relationship emerged, with ESS surpassing DBS. For policy implications, local governments should reassess and harmonize their policies to determine the cost-effectiveness of preserving a declining DBS program.