This appears to be a first for spring training: The City of Peoria (AZ) has approved a shared-ride, autonomous shuttle operating in the P83 Entertainment District, which includes Peoria Stadium.
Peoria Stadium is home to the Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres for spring training.
The fully electric, driverless shuttle is set to launch on Saturday, Feb. 22, and will operate daily from noon to 6 p.m. in the P83 Entertainment District on Arrowhead Fountain Center Drive from Huntington University to Paradise Lane–a route that includes hotels popular with spring-training guests, such as the Hampton Inn hotel south of Bell Road. The P83 Entertainment District shuttle, which has no steering wheel or pedals, will use a pre-programmed, fixed route with a combination of localization techniques, involving high-powered censors and cameras. It is open to the public without an appointment, fee or pre-screening. Additionally, the shuttle is ADA accessible and has an attendant onboard at all times to ensure riders have a pleasant and safe experience. The Beep Command Center can also communicate with the onboard shuttle attendant at any time. The shuttle holds up to 10 passengers at a time and will operate at a maximum speed of 15 mph as part of the pilot program.
The Beep autonomous vehicle will not pull up right to Peoria Stadium, but will stop on Arrowhead Fountain Center Drive, providing fans with a close walk to a game.
“This transportation pilot is a unique experiment for our community,” said Mayor Cathy Carlat. “We see this as an important step as we seek to understand some of the innovative solutions that exist around the world, and how they bring value to Peoria residents.”
Image courtesy City of Peoria.
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