Active transportation update: Bird e-scooters now on campus

Scooters and bikes parked on campus

Saint Mary’s is making active transportation more accessible, affordable and appealing to the campus community. With new initiatives and infrastructure in place, SMU is encouraging students, staff and faculty to choose greener, healthier ways to get around. 

A new addition is the Bird Canada e-scooter program, launched in July with two dedicated locations on campus—the Burke Building and the canopy of the Engineering building (960 Tower Road). SMU students can enjoy exclusive perks, including 10 minutes free on their first ride (promo code: FORFREE, valid until October 1), and ongoing discounts with a SMU email address.  

Bird also offers semester subscriptions with $3 flat-rate rides, plus flexible ride passes for frequent users. Parents can even load funds directly into student accounts, making it easier to budget for sustainable travel. To get started, download the Bird app.

Cyclists can use the bike repair stations and secure bike lockers, which are available for rent. Lockers are located near the Dauphinee Centre and can be reserved online. These amenities are also visible on the Campus Map.

For faculty and staff, the Smart Trip Program offers a discounted Halifax Transit EPass, making public transit a more affordable commuting option. Learn more about this program.

In keeping with the sustainable transportation theme, on October 2, HRM will host a Halifax Urban Greenway engagement kiosk in the Loyola Colonnade from 1-4 p.m. This multi-use trail will connect Point Pleasant Park to the Chain of Lakes Trail, with a route that passes through The Oaks property on campus. As an active project partner, SMU invites the campus community to share input and help shape this important addition to Halifax’s active transportation network. 

Together, these initiatives reflect Saint Mary’s commitment to sustainability, wellness and a more connected campus.