In Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, a pilot program featuring food delivery robots is facing pushback from residents. Over 800 individuals have signed a petition demanding a halt to the initiative due to safety concerns and accessibility issues.
Concerns Raised by Residents
Josh Robertson initiated the petition after an unsettling encounter with one of the delivery robots. Initially, he was excited about the technology. However, he soon realized the potential danger when a robot approached his family during a walk. “This was a vehicle coming toward us. It has cameras and bright headlights,” he said, highlighting the reflexive need to get out of its way.
Robertson argues that sidewalks should be safe and accessible for everyone. He advocates for a public hearing where safety and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) data can be evaluated. He emphasizes the necessity for clear regulations regarding the use of these robots.
Background of the Pilot Program
The Personal Delivery Device (PDD) Pilot Program was launched under former Mayor Lori Lightfoot in 2022. It facilitates partnerships between companies like Serve and Coco Robotics with local restaurants to deliver food using robots. In November 2024, Coco received its operating license from the Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection (BACP). Serve began operations in September 2025.
- Start of PDD Pilot Program: 2022
- Coco Licensed: November 2024
- Serve Launched: September 2025
- End Date for Program: May 2027 (unless extended by City Council)
City officials state that the pilot aims to assess both the benefits and risks of using robots as couriers. The program’s design is to evaluate whether these robots can safely take over vehicle deliveries without interfering with pedestrian spaces.
Incidents and Accessibility Issues
There has been significant feedback regarding the obstruction caused by delivery robots. Many residents report the machines stopping in the middle of sidewalks and crosswalks, which poses a danger to pedestrians. Robertson noted that individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches have expressed concerns about these obstructions.
One notable incident involved a resident named Anthony Jonas, who suffered an eye injury after colliding with a robot. He is pursuing legal action and has joined the petition efforts. “We want the city to make safety and accessibility data available,” he stated.
Comparisons to Other Cities
Chicago is not alone in grappling with the implementation of delivery robots. Cities like San Francisco have introduced restrictions on these vehicles. Toronto even banned delivery robots from sidewalks and bike lanes altogether in 2021.
Surveillance Concerns
Another pressing issue is surveillance. Coco robots are equipped with multiple cameras that constantly collect data for navigation. Each robot has 360-degree perception capabilities. While both Coco and Serve claim to review all safety incidents, the amount of recorded data raises questions about privacy.
Both companies assert that their robots cannot exceed speeds of 5 miles per hour and are programmed to slow down near pedestrians. Compliance with city regulations is mandatory, and reporting of injuries related to the robots is required by BACP.
Moving Forward
The pilot program is scheduled to run through at least May 2026. As the number of delivery robots increases, resident concerns will likely continue to shape the future of this technology in Chicago.
