EMU Today

YPSILANTI −  Eastern Michigan University students, faculty, and staff will soon enjoy a new and eco-friendly mode of transportation. Battery-operated scooters powered by 100% renewable energy will be available across the University’s main campus thanks to a partnership with Spin, a leading micro-mobility service provider.

The new green transportation program advances the University’s long-standing commitment to sustainability. In 2021, Spin achieved carbon neutrality, making it the first micro-mobility company to reach that goal. The partnership advances both institutions’ shared sustainability goals. 

Beginning Sept. 19, Spin e-scooters will become available for rental at marked corrals adjacent to existing bike racks on the EMU campus. Riders must be at least 18 years or older, have a valid driver’s license, and download the Spin app. 

As a year-round mode of emission-free transportation, Spin scooters represent an efficient alternative to single-occupancy vehicles and will complement EMU’s campus shuttles provided by GameAbove.

"We applaud the work that EMU is doing to expand alternative transit solutions that are safe and sustainable," said Matt Reback, senior manager of campus partnerships at Spin. "Spin will be a natural and complementary addition to the local transit network, and to Eastern Michigan University’s campus where scooters will help alleviate traffic congestion."

There is no cost to the University. Users will pay a fee each time they use a scooter. 

“The new electric scooters support the University’s efforts to evolve campus mobility and sustainability,” said Walter Kraft, EMU vice president for communications. “We are providing safe and efficient mobility options and the ability to continue implementing technologies that improve our campus infrastructure to allow e-bikes, e-scooters, pedestrians, bicyclists, and student shuttles to coexist.”

Learn more at the University's electric scooter page. 

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 15,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.

About Spin
Spin, recently acquired by TIER Mobility, operates electric bikes and scooters on North American cities and campuses. Spin launched the first-ever stationless bike share program in the United States and was instrumental in crafting the world’s first mobility permitting system that is now used around the world. Spin consists of a diverse team of experienced professionals from government and private sectors, and the transportation advocacy world, all of whom are committed to fulfilling the company’s mission - to help create a world full of 15-minute cities. https://www.spin.app