Walmart is looking to bring its drone delivery service to Clermont, potentially making the city a central hub for aerial dispatch of groceries and other lightweight items in Central Florida. The company has submitted a request to expand its service to the area, which will be considered by the Clermont City Council. The proposal entails operating drones from the Walmart Supercenter on Johns Lake Road, and the company is asking for permission to install an 8-foot security fence and a temporary storage container for its drone fleet, according to FOX 35 Orlando.
In an effort to support the drone delivery infrastructure, Walmart has requested two variances from the Clermont Land Development Code: allowing for a taller fence than the current 6-foot limit and permitting use of a shipping container for a longer period than usually allowed under a temporary structure permit. Despite a city staff report indicating support for Walmart's requests and recommending council approval, the company has not finalized plans for drone delivery expansion in Orlando, reported ClickOrlando.
The expansion could offer convenience for residents, promising to deliver items like fresh fruit and pet food within 30 minutes to customers within a six-mile radius. Walmart Plus members could enjoy free drone delivery, while the service would cost $19.99 for nonmembers. The program is not without its detractors, with concerns covering everything from potential air traffic to job displacement. "It's just more stuff that they're just taking jobs away from people, and they're pushing it as, 'oh, convenience, convenience, convenience," Russell Montevechi said, as reported by ClickOrlando.
City officials hope that drone delivery might reduce local traffic and visits to the store, as long as the program stays within the bounds of FAA regulations. Yet, public opinion is split on the upcoming service, with reactions ranging from excitement about the future of delivery to preferences for traditional shopping experiences.
