A one-year self-driving shuttle pilot program is set to launch in Columbus, Ohio.

Known as the Linden LEAP (Linden Empowers All People), the pilot program, which is being funded by Columbus’ win of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Smart City Challenge, will service destinations around the South Linden neighborhood of Columbus from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, with stops in service during school arrival and dismissal times.

Linden LEAP is being described as the nation’s first public self-driving shuttle in a residential area.

“Bringing smart technology and mobility into our neighborhoods is an important tool for sharing success and expanding opportunity,” says Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther.

“The launch of the Linden LEAP will help us guide future innovations in the community and beyond, using self-driving technology to help reduce barriers to community resources.”

Two all-electric vehicles from EasyMile will operate on a 2.9-mile route. Capable of reaching a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour, the vehicles can accommodate up to 12 passengers at a time and are wheelchair accessible.

The shuttles operate using a suite of sensors that deliver a 360-degree view around the vehicle. Using these sensors, along with intelligent software, the vehicle understands where it is, in which direction to steer, and when to slow down, accelerate, or stop for something in its path. The vehicle also knows every inch of its route and how to navigate through a variety of traffic conditions thanks to mapping.

A customer service ambassador will be on board the shuttle at all times, and will have access to the driving controls to take over control of the vehicle if necessary. All shuttle operators will be employed by EmpowerBus, a local mobility startup.

“As a start-up focused on access and equity, being able to provide innovative mobility to the Linden community and its neighbors is truly an honor,” says Aslyne Rodriguez, CEO of EmpowerBus. “Advancement of technology should enhance the lives of all communities. Being able to provide the team that delivers that service, who call Linden home or who once grew up there, is next-level connection to our mission and vision.”

The shuttles will arrive at each of four stops approximately every 12 minutes. They will pick-up and drop-off passengers at the Linden Transit Center, Rosewind Estates Community Center, Douglas Community Recreation Center and St. Stephen’s Community House. These locations provide residents with a variety of resources including affordable housing, healthy food, childcare, healthcare centers and recreation. The program will also connect residents who live in the area to the Central Ohio Transit Authority’s (COTA) CMAX line to access jobs and services.

“The LEAP brings us one step closer to addressing the mobility challenges that many of our residents face each day,” says Marilyn Mehaffie, CEO of St. Stephen’s Community House. “St. Stephen’s is excited to participate in this project, and we are committed to working with our local leaders to find innovative mobility solutions for the residents of Linden.”