ORLANDO, Fla. – Orange County could be making changes to how pedicabs operate along International Drive, one of central Florida’s most popular tourist corridors.
County officials are considering updates to an existing ordinance and are looking for public input on how to improve safety, customer satisfaction and the overall pedicab experience in the district.
Pedicabs — three-wheeled cycles fitted with a passenger cab — are a familiar sight in tourist-heavy areas across the country. They are popular during Houston Astros games and along the beaches of Volusia County.
On I-Drive, they offer visitors a convenient way to navigate the area’s restaurants, nightlife and attractions.
In 2017, Orange County passed an ordinance governing pedicab operations on I-Drive. The rules require all operators to obtain and display valid permits, carry liability insurance, post fare prices and comply with vehicle size and safety equipment guidelines.
Catherine Ojeda, owner of Redi Pedi Cab Company, was a proponent of that ordinance when it passed, believing it was necessary to improve the pedicab experience for drivers and customers. She launched her business in 2006 and has been a fixture on I-Drive ever since.
“We just had three pedicabs at the time, and we’ve grown to more than 20 pedicabs now,” Ojeda explained.
Now, Ojeda believes the current rules have not kept pace with the times.
“Well, for business to offer better experience, and to stay competitive, ourselves as business owners, I think some changes have to be done with what’s allowed on the on the city cabs,” Ojeda said.
One of the biggest sticking points: pedicabs are currently prohibited from using electric assist because it is classified as a motor. As electric scooters and electric bikes continue to grow in popularity, Ojeda argues pedicabs need the same option to keep up.
“I know conventions like us. I know exhibitors like us and the attendees enjoy the pedicab rides. When they hop on the pedicab, we’re pretty much the only time of their day that they get to enjoy the Florida sunshine,” she said. “And so, to have a pedal assist, it’s going to help the driver; it’s going to help the overall experience.”
It remains unclear when, or if, any proposed changes to the pedicab ordinance would come before the county commission.
The Orange County Public Works Department is holding a public meeting to discuss possible changes to the ordinance from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the West Concourse Room W221A at the Orange County Convention Center. Parking for the meeting will be complimentary.