Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Transit Vehicle Pilot Program, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2019

The City of Grand Rapids–along with partners May Mobility, Consumers Energy, PlanetM/Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Rockford Construction, Start Garden/Seamless, Faurecia, Gentex, and Steelcase–launched a year-long autonomous vehicle shuttle project under the aegis of AVGR.

Four six-seat electric AV shuttles will operate along the existing DASH West route in downtown Grand Rapids at a 20 minute headway. The existing, fully accessible service will continue to operate at a 8 minute headway.  According to the PlanetM report (also linked below), “the [3.2 mile] route includes 22 stops, 30 traffic lights, and 12 turns, including three left turns.” An attendant will remain on board to intervene if necessary, and to answer questions. The service is free and the hours of operation are: Tuesday-Friday: 7 AM-7 PM; Saturday: 10 AM-7 PM;  Sunday and Monday: no service.

Credit: City of Grand Rapids

Updated October 2019