In anticipation of potential unrest related to the 2024 elections, the City of Portland has issued new regulations on the use of e-scooters in the downtown area, starting early in the morning on Election Day, November 5. The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT), adhering to directives from the Portland Police Bureau and Portland Fire & Rescue, is to swiftly implement a NO PARKING and NO RIDING ZONE, according to the City of Portland. This geofenced zone encompasses an area bordered by SW Harvey Milk Street, SW Broadway, SW Clay Street, and SW First Avenue, with allowances for e-scooters to cross the Hawthorne and Morrison Bridges and travel along Naito Parkway.

These restrictions are in place amidst concerns of vandalism and violence, echoing a tension that has simmered in national discourse. "As we approach the upcoming election, we understand there are questions and concerns about the potential for vandalism or violence involving e-scooter devices," states the official Portland government website. These precautionary measures aim to help maintain public order during the election period. Further details are available on e-scooter providers' apps like Lime and Lyft, guiding riders in navigating the new regulations.

Additional information regarding the City of Portland's broader preparations for election-related activities can be found in the multi-agency Unified Command's coverage of the situation. They detail how "Portland Police protect free speech, and processes for managing and having permitted events" at the PPB's Public Order web presence, as per the City of Portland.