This summer, Philadelphia plans to put an automated vehicle (AV) shuttle in service for visitors and employees within the Philadelphia Navy Yard campus and to a nearby Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority station.
The shuttle is expected to help to reduce congestion and carbon emissions.
PIDC, Philadelphia’s public-private economic development corporation, awarded Perrone Robotics, a provider of fully automated vehicle systems, with a two-phased AV shuttle and services contract. The contract includes the delivery of a street-worthy shuttle that is automated; has zero emissions; and is Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, Americans with Disabilities Act, and Buy America compliant.
Existing transportation services will continue to run during phase one. During phase two, the AV shuttle will connect the Navy Yard to SEPTA’s NRG Station on the Broad Street subway line and adjacent to the Sports Complex and FDR Park.
A backup operator will be on board the shuttle during the pilot program.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) will oversee regulatory approvals. PennDOT and Drexel University will analyze shuttle performance and rider feedback. AECOM, an infrastructure consulting firm, will provide program management, technical planning, testing, and deployment expertise.
The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission’s Travel Options Program, an initiative awarding projects that provide better access to more travel options, funded the program.