D.C. Launches Autonomous Vehicles Pilot Project

The local government of Washington, D.C. formed a think tank to prepare for the imminent spread of autonomous vehicles.  It’s DC, right?  Why not another think tank.

In any event, the pilot project will attempt to design a program that will regulate self-driving vehicles. Thus, the project will be made up of city staff with experience in transportation, the environment, public safety and disability rights. Mayor Muriel Bowser noted that the “Autonomous Vehicle Working Group” was organized by the city to plan for the emergence of autonomous vehicles.

As part of the project, Bowser’s administration is also working in conjunction with the Southwest Business Improvement District (SWBID) produce an autonomous vehicle pilot.

“Washington, D.C., is a creative, tech-savvy city, and as we grow, we will always be exploring and investing in innovation and finding ways to make it more inclusive,” said Bowser. “We will keep the District on the cutting edge of autonomous vehicles and do so in a way that benefits our residents.”

Although the city has yet to fully commit to a specific pilot, the project hopes to help residents and visitors with their first- and last-mile connections and there are hints of a possible autonomous shuttle solution.

“Our hope is that autonomous vehicles will enhance this conduit, act as a catalyst for innovative mobility solutions across the District, and ultimately create an interconnected, sustainable community,” said Steve Moore, executive director of SWBID. “This RFI is just the first step in what we hope will ultimately become a successful — and historic — pilot project.”

In the event that the pilot is successful, there is a large chance for the autonomous vehicles to be expanded to other parts of the city.

Category: General Update, News