Amazon pulls Westboro drone proposal
The retailer withdrew its application Friday but plans to resubmit a revised project soon after residents voted to regulate drone noise.
By Julian Schulz ·
Amazon withdrew its drone delivery proposal for Westboro, Massachusetts, on Friday. The company requested the withdrawal without prejudice in a letter to the Town of Westboro Planning Board. Amazon intends to submit a revised project in the near future.
The plan involved Prime Air drones measuring five feet by five feet. These autonomous aircraft would deliver packages to customer properties within one hour of order placement. The system aimed to reduce road traffic and create skilled local jobs while producing sound comparable to a passing car.
Residents opposed the initial plan due to concerns over noise, privacy, and nuisance. At a special town meeting in October, Westboro voters approved a measure to regulate commercial drone deliveries. The vote counted 510 in favor and 13 against.
Lindsay Hamilton, an Amazon spokesperson, confirmed the company will continue community engagement and work with state and local lawmakers. She stated that Prime Air provides convenient fast delivery and generates minimal short-lived sound. Amazon plans to resubmit the project after further discussions with local stakeholders.
The Federal Aviation Administration has already approved drone deliveries in the airspace. Westboro residents focus on regulating operations from the ground. Opponents argue Amazon should not launch drones from its current facility on Otis Street.
The issue is scheduled to return to the Zoning Board of Appeals on Monday.
Source: WBZ-TV
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