Valley Metro and Waymo have announced the first partnership of its kind.

Operating similarly to other rideshare apps, Waymo’s self driving vehicle technology will be used to bring people to and from a Valley Metro stop. This pilot program is designed to increase access to public transportation for people who live too far away to walk. Scott Smith, CEO of Valley Metro, said it is trying to find an economical way to provide low-cost transportation.

“That's what we are trying to find out here with this pilot. Can we integrate with a private company and do it in a way that is economical for us and for them that still provides the low-cost transportation that people depend upon with public transportation?” Smith said.

He added that the integration of autonomous vehicles is the future of public transportation and he is confident in the technology’s safety.