Coachella City Council approves use of Bird scooters in the city

To get around in Coachella, people can walk, drive their cars, ride a bike or take the bus.

But soon, they'll be able to use the bird.

Not the kind that flies, but Bird scooters

"I love it. I feel like it would be a great for everyone to travel around the city," said Coachella resident Evelyn Martinez.

Coachella Mayor Steve Hernandez is among the council members who voted unanimously to approve bringing Birds to the city. 

The scooters, which travel up to 15 miles an hour, are app-based and pay as you go.

The mayor says you'll see 100 scooters around the city at the end of April for a soft launch.

"For us in the City of Coachella It's about mobility.  We want to make sure that people can get out of their house, get out of their car, and come into our beautiful downtown and come visit our beautiful park system," said Hernandez. 

The scooters are approved for use in a 25 square mile area in the middle of the city.

Riders must be at least 18 years old and are required to follow traffic laws.

Riders must use bike paths or stay near the side of the road. 

It's against state law to ride on sidewalks. 

The Bird Scooters are electric powered and must be charged every night.

The valley cities where Birds are not allowed include Palm Springs Palm Desert, La Quinta and Indian Wells, after leaders in those cities expressed concerns over safety and liability.

Hernandez thinks the scooters are great fit for his city, which has a younger population. 

"I would use one just because I never rode one.  I've seen it.  I know how they work.  It looks pretty fun and a great way to experience something new," said Coachella resident Francisco Corrales.

While optimistic the scooters will be well-received, Mayor Hernandez says the program can be cancelled at any time after the city gives Bird a 30 day notice.