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In Santa Monica, tensions are rising between residents and Waymo, a company operating a fleet of driverless taxis. Residents have expressed frustration over noise pollution from Waymo's charging stations located on Broadway near Euclid Street. These stations are close to homes and schools, causing disturbances with the constant beeping of vehicles backing up. According to KTLA, Christopher Potter, a local resident, started an online petition to lower the volume of these sounds, describing them as an "incessant disturbance."
Residents have taken matters into their own hands, using cones, cars, and even themselves to block the vehicles from entering their parking lot. This has led to Waymo calling the police multiple times, and one resident even received a restraining order for obstructing the vehicles.
Waymo, owned by Alphabet, has taken some steps to address the noise complaints, such as planting trees and foliage as sound barriers. However, Santa Monica Daily Press reports that the city has confirmed the noise does not violate local noise standards. Despite this, residents remain dissatisfied and demand further action.
City officials have stated they have no jurisdiction over Waymo's operations, as regulation falls under the California Public Utilities Commission and the Department of Motor Vehicles. Federal regulations also require electric vehicles to emit sounds when backing up to ensure pedestrian safety.