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Essex commissioners put autonomous shuttle pilot on the radar after Grand Rapids example
Summary
Members discussed exploring an autonomous shuttle pilot modeled on programs in Grand Rapids, Minn., and noted Vermont's test-state status; Tammy said she will compile materials for a future agenda item to assess feasibility and partners.
A commission member raised the idea June 4 of exploring autonomous shuttles as a way to fill local transit gaps, citing a pilot in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, where five vehicles are in use and rides are free under federal support.
Ann said the concept could help replace service lost to regular transit routes and increase accessibility for seniors and other residents; Tammy said Vermont was identified in 2019 as a test state for autonomous-vehicle pilots and volunteered to gather more information and present a fuller proposal at a future meeting. "I will provide maybe in the next packet more materials about all of this," Tammy said, offering to follow up with specifics about vehicle capacity, federal funding and potential partners such as UVM.
Commissioners discussed operational details including ADA accessibility, test-driver requirements, vehicle capacity (roughly five to six passengers per vehicle in Grand Rapids) and the need to coordinate with municipal staff and Green Mountain Transit for potential pilots. The manager's office has been alerted and commissioners said they will place a fuller discussion on a future agenda if there is interest.
Next steps: Tammy will compile materials and the topic will be added to a future leisure/transportation agenda for more detailed consideration.
