Senator David Farnsworth, chairman of the Arizona Senate Appropriations and Transportation Committee, has met with Uber policy staff to discuss new transit solutions for the East Valley. The meeting focused on ways ride-share companies could use technology to address inefficiencies in local transportation systems.
Farnsworth urged Uber to consider developing autonomous vehicles similar to those made by Waymo. He said these vehicles could improve public transportation by offering more efficient and reliable options than current fixed-route buses, which often run with few passengers and result in higher costs for taxpayers.
“We have a responsibility to find effective solutions for the people of Arizona, rather than simply maintaining inefficient systems that waste taxpayer funds,” said Chairman Farnsworth. “Meeting with companies like Uber highlights a significant opportunity to let innovation take the lead. I will continue to advocate for a more effective use of taxpayer dollars and improved services for the community. Autonomous vehicles can provide safer and more efficient transportation, and I will keep working to ensure that Arizona remains at the forefront of realistic and sustainable travel options for the future.”
The senator’s initiative aims to reduce government waste while leveraging private sector technology for public benefit. This approach seeks to create real-time, on-demand transit that can respond better to residents’ needs.
Warren Petersen, also a Republican, was elected in 2023 as state senator representing Arizona’s 14th Senate District, taking over from David Gowan.
