NEW ULM — The Bird e-scooters will not be returning this spring, but Levy has risen to take its place.

Two years ago, the city authorized a micromobility vehicle-sharing operation with the Bird company. The electric scooters could be rented and shared by the community for a fee. Recently, Bird opted not to continue the program in New Ulm, however a different e-scooter company named Levy.

City Manager Chris Dalton said the local vendor who maintained the Bird fleet is working with Levy and has already paid the license agreement fee.

City Councilor Eric Warmka said this was discussed at the Transportation Advisory Committee meeting. It was suggested these scooters be placed near stops on the bus route to help people get around.

The agreement authorized up to 200 vehicles. Levy’s fleet includes bicycles and segways, but at this time the agreement is limited to the e-scooters.

Dalton said it is possible they could negotiate for other vehicles in the future.

The council unanimously authorized to execute of the new micromobility vehicle sharing operations licenses agreement with Levy.

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The 2023 Airport Parking Lot rehabilitation project contract was awarded to OMG Midwest for $99,808.05. This bid was 54% lower than the engineer’s estimate. City Engineer Joe Stadheim said the city received strong bids for the project.

The city will share 5% ($4,990.40) of the project cost. A federal grant will cover 90% of the cost and a state grant will cover the remaining 5%.

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The 2023 Utility, Street and Alley Improvement contract was awarded to M.R. Paving & Excavating for $2.8 million.

The project improvements to Washington Street from 7th S. to 10th S., Minnesota Street from 7th N. to 9th N., Oakwood Avenue from Boettger Road to Milford Street, multiple alley blocks and miscellaneous storm sewer, concrete sidewalk and ADA Improvements.

M.R. Paving was the low bidder on the project. This bid was 4.78% below the engineer’s estimate.