Chattanooga Mayor Explores Waymo Self-Driving Taxis for Economic Growth

What's Happening?

Mayor Tim Kelly of Chattanooga has expressed interest in bringing Waymo's self-driving taxis to the city. During a panel at the Chattanooga Connect conference, Kelly discussed his conversation with Waymo at a Google event, where he inquired about the company's plans to expand into Chattanooga. Waymo, a subsidiary of Google, operates autonomous vehicles in several cities, including Atlanta and soon Nashville, through partnerships with rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft. Kelly sees the introduction of Waymo as an economic development opportunity that would not require additional infrastructure from the city. He believes Chattanooga's existing resources, such as the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley Authority, make it an ideal location for testing autonomous driving technology.

Why It's Important?

The potential arrival of Waymo's self-driving taxis in Chattanooga could position the city as a leader in autonomous vehicle technology among midsize cities. This move could attract other tech companies and foster innovation, leveraging local resources like the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The introduction of autonomous vehicles could also enhance public transportation, as the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority plans to integrate self-driving features into its shuttle network. This development could improve urban mobility and reduce traffic congestion, making Chattanooga a more attractive destination for residents and visitors.

What's Next?

While there is no confirmed timeline for Waymo's entry into Chattanooga, Mayor Kelly's discussions indicate that the city is on the company's radar. The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority is preparing to incorporate self-driving technology into its services, which could serve as a precursor to broader adoption of autonomous vehicles in the city. As Chattanooga continues to develop its smart city infrastructure, the successful integration of Waymo could pave the way for further technological advancements and economic growth.