Photo: Joe Raedle / Getty Images News / Getty Images
In recent days, two delivery robots in Chicago caused damage by crashing into bus shelters, sparking a debate about their role in the city. On Sunday (March 22), a robot operated by Serve Robotics smashed into a bus shelter at Grand and Racine in West Town, followed by a Coco Robotics robot hitting another shelter at North and Larrabee in Old Town on Monday (March 23). Both companies have committed to paying for repairs and are investigating the incidents.
The delivery robots, introduced as part of a pilot program, have become a common sight in Chicago neighborhoods like Lincoln Park. However, these recent accidents have raised concerns about their safety and impact on jobs.
Mayor Brandon Johnson acknowledged the incidents, emphasizing the need to evaluate the pilot program, which runs until May 2027. He stated that the program aims to assess the benefits and challenges of using delivery robots in the city.
The incidents have also led to a petition with over 3,700 signatures calling for the end of the delivery robot program. Additionally, Alderman Daniel LaSpata has restricted the expansion of robot operations in his ward due to negative feedback from residents.
Both Serve and Coco have issued statements taking responsibility for the damages and are working to prevent future occurrences. The companies emphasized that safety is a top priority and that such incidents are rare, given the extensive miles their robots have covered.
As the debate continues, the city is working with the companies to address the issues and ensure the safety of both residents and the robots themselves.