Although the University of Idaho campus is expansive and beautiful, it’s safe to say that getting from point A to point B can be quite the trek. For example, travelling from the Wallace Residence Center to the Niccolls Building can take upwards of 15 minutes. While some students rely on a brisk walk to get to their lectures on time, others have invested in bikes, skateboards and even electric scooters.
Over the years, the usage of electric scooters has become more mainstream. This alternative method of travel has become more popular, with companies such as Lime Micromobility that offer e-scooters for rent in many cities around the United States. These vehicles are great for the environment, good for short commutes and, overall, fun to ride. However, these scooters have also been seen as harmful to both the people who ride them and to others around. According to a 2021 CBS News article, e-scooters accounted for 25,400 ER visits within that year.
“I liked scooters as a little kid, and I thought it would be cheaper than getting an electric bike.”
Regardless, many see these scooters to be the quickest and most efficient way to travel — especially in a college town like Moscow. Evan Reynolds, a UI student and electric scooter owner, bought his own last summer after having to bike and walk to classes last year. “I liked scooters as a little kid, and I thought it would be cheaper than getting an electric bike,” Reynolds said. “I just kind of splurged and got one.” Reynolds also discussed how the scooter has made his life a little easier, as his commute between classes has shortened.
For student pedestrians however, the abundance of electric scooters on campus has caused more of an inconvenience. “I think that scooter drivers around here are a little aggressive,” said Faith Thompson, another UI student. Thompson described some instances in which scooter drivers have almost hit her on walks to class, and even a time when a scooter driver almost hit a car. “I think that they’re fine, just that every one who rides them should be more aware of their surroundings,” Thompson said. Mariska Fulton, another UI student, shares the same sentiment. “I do believe that they are convenient, however, I just don’t like how I feel like they might hit me,” she said.
Some haven’t given much thought to the subject. Asher Holdem and Isaiah Hewitt, fellow students on campus, discussed how they both thought the scooters were convenient, but overall, it wasn’t a subject that crossed their minds too often. Hewitt uses a bike to get from class to class and noted that dodging scooters can be a bit of a hassle, but saw no problem with them.
Regardless of whether one is a scooter hater or a scooter lover, the hike across campus every day can be tiring. Through the investments of a bike, a scooter or even a hoverboard, some people have found this commute a little easier. However, a fast-paced walk is still reliable to get students from place to place — just watch out for those scooters.
