City of Riverside Showcases Innovation and Smart City Leadership Through Emerging Technology Initiatives

Published: 10/27/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Oct. 27, 2025

Contact:

Phil Pitchford

Public Information Officer

951-826-5975

[email protected]

City of Riverside Showcases Innovation and Smart City Leadership Through Emerging Technology Initiatives Alongside DoorDash Labs

Dot, a cutting-edge autonomous delivery robot, has come to Riverside

RIVERSIDE, Calif. - The City of Riverside has welcomed DoorDash Labs to bring Dot, a cutting-edge autonomous delivery robot, to Riverside. Dot leverages advanced robotics and smart mobility technology to accelerate local commerce and enhance services for residents and small businesses.

As part of this initiative, DoorDash Labs and the City's Economic Development Team are exploring an innovation hub in Riverside. This collaboration continues to expand Riverside's leadership in innovation, automation, and next-generation logistics, while building upon the City's thriving Green Technology Hub and commitment to sustainable smart-city growth.

"Riverside is leading the way in building a connected, innovative, and sustainable city," Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson said. "Our partnership with DoorDash Labs reflects our vision to attract cutting-edge technology that strengthens our local economy, supports small businesses, and improves quality of life for our residents."

In collaboration with the City's Public Works Department, the project team is developing a strategic, safety-first plan to ensure the responsible future integration of autonomous delivery robots on Riverside's streets. The plan focuses on risk mitigation, route safety, and operational readiness, ensuring deployment aligns with Riverside's vision for a smarter, safer, and more connected community.

Through this collaboration, Riverside is establishing a model for the thoughtful integration of robotics and automation into local infrastructure, setting a benchmark for cities across the country seeking to embrace next-generation technology responsibly and effectively.

The partnership with DoorDash Labs is expected to support local entrepreneurs, create jobs, and strengthen small-business growth. It will also improve access to local restaurants and services, bringing tangible benefits to Riverside residents and small business owners alike.

"This partnership reinforces Riverside's position as a destination for innovation and advanced technology," City Manager Mike Futrell said. "By working with forward-thinking partners like DoorDash Labs, we're building a more resilient local economy and helping shape the future of mobility and logistics."

"We're proud to be working with the City of Riverside to advance the future of autonomous deliveries," said Henry Greenidge, Senior Legislative Policy Advisor for DoorDash Labs. "Together, we can help shape a smarter and more sustainable future where innovative technology like Dot can bring next-generation robotics out of the lab and into the community."

The first public demonstration of Dot in Riverside took place Friday (10/24) in partnership with Gram's BBQ and the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, showcasing the future of autonomous delivery in Riverside.

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