Jan 04, 2022

Beep Expands Autonomous Shuttle Testing with Seniors in Arizona

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Peoria, AZ – Through April 2022, the City of Peoria, Beep and the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) will be testing an autonomous shuttle service called, RoboRide Medical, as part of a four-month pilot program. The free, electric, driverless shuttle service opens to the public Wednesday, Jan. 5 at 8 a.m. in the healthcare district near Plaza Del Rio Boulevard and runs Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“Peoria is a modern, thriving community embracing the evolution of transit. As we evaluate future needs and opportunities, we are thrilled to collaborate with industry leaders and regional groups to identify how fully-electric and autonomous shuttle service can improve mobility in our community. I look forward to seeing Peoria residents and families joining us as we study this exciting and innovative concept.” – Cathy Carlat, Mayor of City of Peoria

The pilot program is the second iteration in a transportation technology study in the City of Peoria. The first project served a roughly one-mile route in the P83 Entertainment District. Peoria received positive feedback and useful data regarding driverless technology during the project in the P83 Entertainment District.  To expand upon the learnings and with the help of Arizona State University, the city of Peoria and MAG will study the feasibility of autonomous shuttle service in a robust healthcare district within the Plaza del Rio area. This analysis will provide important data on high-tech mobility options and ridership patterns to better understand future transit opportunities and mobility solutions. Plaza Del Rio is home to more than 100 medical facilities and more than 500 senior living residences. This service connects Peoria residents from their point-of-origin to their destination within the same service area.

“MAG is dedicated to exploring emerging technologies that provide transportation access and convenience to our region’s residents and improve quality of life. The RoboRide Medical pilot project reflects the region’s commitment to transportation improvement and affirms that the region is open to new technologies that improve the efficiency, safety and operations of our transportation system. This type of forward thinking and planning is necessary to ensure regional competitiveness for the benefit of our residents.” –  John Giles, Mesa Mayor and MAG Regional Council Chair

RoboRide Medical has no steering wheel or pedals and will operate using a pre-programmed, fixed route. No appointment, fee or pre-screening is necessary. Additionally, the shuttle can accommodate passengers with mobility needs, including riders with wheelchairs or scooters. The shuttle will always have an attendant onboard to ensure riders have a pleasant and safe experience. Additionally, the Beep Command Center will remotely provide an additional layer of safety and support by communicating with the attendant at any time. RoboRide Medical holds approximately eight passengers and will operate at a maximum speed of 15 mph.

“We are thrilled to return to such an innovative community like the city of Peoria. Our partnership with the city and the Maricopa Association of Governments provides the perfect synergy to enable mobility for all communities and people. We are honored to be part of the healthcare district near Plaza Del Rio Boulevard for the next several months providing first and last-mile solutions to medical services for the senior community.” – Joe Moye, Beep CEO