Delivery Robots Take over Chicago Sidewalks, Sparking Debate and a Petition
3 days ago
- #public-safety
- #urban-technology
- #food-delivery
- Food delivery robots are operating in Chicago neighborhoods like Lakeview, Lincoln Park, and Uptown, delivering meals from places like Shake Shack and Taco Bell.
- The robots have sparked mixed reactions, with some finding them adorable and others considering them a safety hazard.
- A petition led by Lincoln Park resident Josh Robertson calls for the city to pause the robot program, citing concerns over pedestrian safety and accessibility.
- Some residents and alderpeople are questioning the impact of the robots on sidewalks, especially for people with disabilities.
- Serve Robotics and Coco are two companies operating the delivery robots in Chicago, with Serve expanding to more neighborhoods and partnering with over 100 restaurants.
- Residents have reported incidents involving the robots, including collisions with bicyclists and obstruction of emergency vehicles.
- Community feedback is being collected through surveys and petitions to assess public opinion on the robots' presence.
- Some residents have grown fond of the robots, appreciating their friendly interactions, while others criticize their corporate intrusion into public spaces.
- The debate continues over whether the robots should remain, with concerns about accessibility, safety, and the future of public sidewalks.