The race to reduce greenhouse gas emissions has led the City of Arlington to embark on a novel experiment with autonomous, electric delivery vehicles, a multimodal delivery pilot project aiming to serve residents especially those in need, while evaluating the environmental footprint. Starting the week of September 9, the City’s Multimodal Delivery Pilot Program will begin transporting boxes of food to clients of the Tarrant Area Food Bank in East Arlington. Laid out in the latest edition of the Enhance Regional Mobility newsletter, officials estimate that about 300 boxes will be distributed during the study, as per the City of Arlington.

A critical area focuses for the Arlington City Council, the pilot is a blade aiming at two targets: improving regional mobility and cutting down emissions. By integrating these electric vehicles, the City is not only looking to provide a vital service to its residents but also to gather data on the viability and scalability of such technology. This initiative is a direct response to the City Council's priority to Enhance Regional Mobility.

Arlington isn’t just stopping with autonomous vehicles. The latest newsletter, produced entirely in digital format replete with videos and important links, also includes updates on citywide street projects and an educational segment titled Safe Streets Arlington.