Modo plans to accelerate growth in Squamish

Further to the November 12 Council Meeting that sparked some debate over Modo’s future in Squamish, the carshare co-operative – which operates two vehicles in the District – would like to make its intentions clear. They’re committed to staying.

According to Sylvain Celaire, Modo’s Director of Business Development, Modo is looking to build its base of carshare users, with the continued support of the District.

“We have no intentions of pulling out of Squamish and are working closely with the municipality to ensure a resilient carsharing network is established,” says Celaire. “As with most new carshare communities, developing a culture of carsharing can take a bit of time.”

As the region grows, the co-op believes there is a shared interest – by Modo, the District and the community at large – in seeing residents and businesses in Squamish reduce their dependency on personally owned vehicles.

“From the District’s perspective, having access to carshare vehicles in addition to fleet vehicles improves options for District staff, and makes it an easier decision to walk, bike or take transit to work,” says Dora Gunn, District of Squamish Sustainability Coordinator. “In addition, these vehicles are for community use, and provide an affordable alternative to personal car ownership.”

There is still more work to be done in order to create a shift in driving behaviour, however with two vehicles equipped with winter tires and ski racks, the carshare should see more usage heading into the winter.

Modo will closely monitor demand to determine the best time to add a third vehicle in order to expand coverage.

Learn more at https://squamish.ca/shared-mobility.

December 10, 2019