Residents in Santa Monica are expressing frustration over noise pollution from Waymo charging stations located on Broadway near Euclid Street. The noise, described as an “incessant disturbance,” stems from the beeping sounds emitted by the autonomous vehicles as they back out of their spaces. Christopher Potter, a resident, has started an online petition to address the issue, stating that the noise disrupts both day and night tranquility.
According to KTLA, Potter’s petition demands that Waymo reduce the volume of the beeping sounds while the vehicles are in their charging lot. The issue has led to tensions in the neighborhood, with one resident receiving a restraining order for blocking the cars from entering the lot.
Waymo, owned by Google’s parent company Alphabet, launched its service in the Los Angeles area in November 2024 and currently operates about 100 vehicles primarily on the city’s westside. In response to the complaints, Waymo has planted trees and other plants to serve as sound barriers. However, city officials have stated that the noise levels do not violate the city’s Exterior Noise Standards.
Despite the company’s efforts, residents remain concerned. A petition on Change.org calls for the management of Waymo and city officials to address the noise issue and take urgent measures to restore peace and quiet to the neighborhood.
The responsibility for regulating Waymo’s operations lies with the California Public Utilities Commission and the Department of Motor Vehicles, as city officials have no jurisdiction over the company’s activities. Federal regulations require all hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs) to emit a beeping sound when backing up to alert pedestrians and bicyclists.
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