The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) has launched its second Presto autonomous shuttle service, in collaboration with leading autonomous shared mobility solutions provider Beep, to increase transportation access for seniors.
With the service, residents of the active senior Rossmoor 55+ community can use the free pilot shuttle program, designed to provide simple and emission-free transportation. The shuttle will run on a pre-programmed loop Monday to Friday from 7:00am to 5:00pm with a trained attendant on board.
Rossmoor, as a large gated community, has been chosen as a testing ground for the autonomous vehicle program. Driven by Oxa, a provider of self-driving vehicle software, the shuttles carry seven passengers, along with an attendant to provide riders with a safe and informed experience. The shuttle network is also remotely monitored by the Beep Command Center to ensure operational safety at all times.
CCTA says it can use passenger feedback from the trial to help shape the future of this technology, as federal transportation officials plan to use pilot data to advance standards in automated mobility. The pilot is funded by a grant from the US Department of Transportation.
CCTA chair Newell Arnerich said, “CCTA is committed to making transportation accessible for all. We chose Rossmoor to pilot an alternative to driving so residents can maintain activities that keep them socially connected while experiencing a cutting-edge transportation network.”
Rossmoor is the second site where CCTA has launched an autonomous vehicle pilot. The first of four proposed pilots was launched in 2023 by CCTA at Bishop Ranch business park in San Ramon. CCTA is also expected to introduce a future autonomous vehicle program in the City of Martinez this summer.
“We are excited to partner with CCTA again, bringing the PRESTO autonomous mobility network to Rossmoor,” said Joe Moye, Beep CEO. “This collaboration underscores our shared vision of leveraging innovative technologies and services to enhance community access to first- and last-mile transportation. Beep autonomous shuttles in Rossmoor will provide reliable and safe transit options, connecting residents to key destinations, people and opportunities within the community.”
Interested in Beep? Check out our exclusive interview with Clayton Tino, president and COO, in the September 2024 issue of ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle International magazine.
