ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Governor Kathy Hochul’s state of the state address included a proposal to advance the autonomous vehicle pilot program, which could bring Waymo self-driving cars to Rochester by the end of the year.
This development hinges on the proposal’s inclusion in the state budget, expected to be finalized in April. Waymo, which has been operational since 2009, launched in the Phoenix metro area and has experience driving in Buffalo and New York City.
New York State Senator Jeremy Cooney, a Democrat and chairman of the state transportation committee, emphasized the importance of embracing new technology for public safety.
“Recognizing that we are seeing increased pedestrian, cycling, and other drivers who are impacted by distracted driving is a big concern. And if we can help solve for them, help keep people safer through autonomous vehicles, that is very appealing for those of us who are worried about public safety as a whole.”
Republican Senator George Borrello highlighted the potential benefits for rural areas lacking public transportation.
“I look at autonomous vehicles as a way to affordably and effectively potentially serve our rural communities, and I think it would also help reduce costs and eliminate fraud.”
Public transportation riders shared varied opinions on the prospect of self-driving cars in Rochester. Jarrad Ackert expressed skepticism about relying on technology, while Bryon Skinner showed enthusiasm for the idea.
Chris Gaw, who has experienced Waymo on the West Coast, sees potential in autonomous vehicles for solo riding and public transportation, though he noted current costs are similar to traditional services like Uber or Lyft.
Senator Cooney addressed concerns about Rochester’s winter conditions, stating that Waymo has been mapping roads to ensure effective operation despite snow or ice.
“They’ve been mapping and figuring out the size of the roads, the routes, the curb cuts, where the lines are, right? So that even if it’s covered up by a piece of debris, snow, or ice, they know what this road looks like and they can operate effectively.”
Regarding potential impacts on Uber and Lyft drivers, Senator Cooney acknowledged concerns but mentioned ongoing plans to prevent job losses, though these plans are still in progress.
News10NBC also reached out to Reconnect Rochester, who are stressing for lawmakers to proceed with caution. It is asking for transparent data collection and public release, and remote operator oversight. Their full letter can be read below.
Senator Cooney did mention that if this does pass, it is still up to the local municipalities to weigh in. So it would still be up to the DMV to make sure these companies are safe, before putting the vehicles on the road.
According to it is expanding to more than 20 cities, including tri-state area metros like Philadelphia, snowy locations like Denver, and major global cities like London and Tokyo. In 2025, it provided over 14 million rides.
Governor Hochul’s proposed legislation is under the ‘Safeguarding Our Roads’ section. The full outline for autonomous vehicles can be read below.
Launching the Next Phase of the Autonomous Vehicle Pilot Program
Autonomous vehicle technology is advancing quickly, and New York has an opportunity to act to ensure its safe and responsible use on our roads. To that end, Governor Hochul will introduce legislation to advance the next phase of New York State’s autonomous vehicle (AV) pilot program by allowing for the limited deployment of commercial for-hire autonomous passenger vehicles outside New York City. AV companies interested in piloting services that expand and improve mobility options for communities will be required to submit applications that demonstrate local support for AV deployment and adherence to the highest possible safety standards.
This initiative builds on years of successful testing demonstrations across the state and reflects growing evidence that autonomous vehicles can improve road safety and transportation options when introduced thoughtfully. By pairing innovation with strong oversight and planning by State agencies including the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Department of Transportation (DOT), and New York State Police (NYSP), New York will help shape the future of transportation while keeping public safety front and center.
The post Autonomous vehicles may soon roll into Rochester as part of Governor Hochul’s state initiative appeared first on WHEC.com.
