Albuquerque city enforces e-scooter parking rules with fines and impoundments

Albuquerque is taking a firm stance on improperly parked e-scooters, recently impounding 38 units in a sweep across the Nob Hill and UNM areas. This crackdown comes as part of the city’s efforts to regulate the shared active transportation program, which allows vendors to rent out small vehicles for short trips. Vendors will now face a $100 relocation fee and a $200 daily storage fee for each scooter that is improperly parked.

In addition to addressing e-scooter issues, the Albuquerque City Council is reviewing a proposed $1.5 billion budget for fiscal year 2026. This budget aims to maintain essential services while preparing for potential economic challenges. Key investments will continue in public safety, homelessness programs, small business support, and community development initiatives that benefit working families.

Public transit is also seeing positive growth, with ABQ Bridal reporting over 7 million rides in 2024, marking an increase of more than 390,000 rides from the previous year. This surge reflects a recovery towards pre-pandemic ridership levels, aided by improved counting methods through automatic passenger counters.

As part of Earth Month, the city encourages community involvement with events like the annual 1 Albuquerque cleanup day, where registered groups can receive free cleaning supplies. Additionally, a free e-waste drop-off event is scheduled for April 22, allowing residents to dispose of old electronics responsibly.

These initiatives highlight Albuquerque's commitment to enhancing community safety and environmental responsibility while navigating the complexities of urban transportation and budget management.