A delivery drone pilot launched in Washington, D.C. in 2016 has been expanded for further deployment.
"The D.C. Council has passed legislation to permit the large-scale deployment of delivery robots across the city," reports Sara Gilgore.
According to Gilgore, the law was drafted by and for Starship Technologies, a company that has piloted the robots in D.C. since 2016.
The law removes geographic limitations, meaning Starship could seek permits to operate beyond just four ZIP codes, and enter the previously restricted central business district. It would also allow the company to have more than five robots on the streets at a time (which, as those of us familiar know, could mean more barking dogs and curious pedestrians who encounter them).
Expect to see more delivery robots on the streets and sidewalks of D.C. starting this fall. The company partners with DoorDash and Postmates, and also operated in Virginia, Idaho Wisconsin, Florida, Ohio, Utah, and several cities in California. Delivery robots are coming soon to Arizona too.
The expansion of Starship's service comes despite reports of drivers striking delivery robots with cars, as detailed in an article by Jeff Clabaugh from February 2018.
Hat tip to Chris Teale for sharing the news.
FULL STORY: More robots in D.C.? Here’s what this delivery company is planning.
More Changes Coming for Transportation
Even as cars and commuter planes look much like they did generations ago, big changes are coming for transportation, argues Timothy B. Lee in a piece for Vox.
What Would Delivery Robots Mean for Public Space?
If companies like Startship and Marble get their way, sidewalks will play host to hundreds of rolling delivery bots. It's one solution to "last-mile" logistics, but are pedestrians prepared to give way?
Cities Replacing Fireworks With Drone Shows
Fireworks shows often lead to lost pets, disruptions for local wildlife, polluted water, and wildfires. Drone shows offer a safer celebration.
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?
Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.
Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.
LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions