These delivery robots are receiving a lukewarm response in Chicago.

      “Chicago sidewalks are intended for pedestrians, not delivery robots,” states a petition aiming to eliminate the wheeled devices from the city’s pathways.

      Two companies, Coco and Serve, are currently utilizing small robots on Chicago sidewalks to deliver meals to customers.

      Since its launch in November, the online petition has gathered over 1,200 signatures from residents across the city who wish to see the robots removed.

      Josh Robertson, the individual behind the petition, shared with CBS News that he initially felt excitement upon spotting the robots navigating the sidewalks, as it seemed like a glimpse into the future.

      However, during an encounter with one of the robots while walking, he instinctively moved aside, even though the sidewalk was meant for pedestrians, not wheeled devices.

      Worried about the implications for safety and employment, Robertson initiated a campaign advocating for more transparency regarding the robots.

      He noted that some individuals using wheelchairs or crutches have found the robots to be bothersome, and highlighted an incident involving a man named Anthony Jonas, who required hospitalization after colliding with one.

      “I tripped over it and hit my eyelid against the visibility flag attached to the robot,” Jonas recounted to CBS News. “It resulted in blood, urgent care, and stitches—the whole ordeal.”

      Discussions about the delivery robot issue have also surfaced in online forums, with one user inquiring, “If I knock them over, will I be penalized?” while another simply remarked, “I dislike them. I let them know that I dislike them.”

      Privacy advocates have raised alarms about the robots, which are equipped with multiple cameras for navigation, expressing concerns about surveillance and data collection in public spaces.

      Coco, one of the delivery robot companies, has expressed willingness to meet with Robertson to address his concerns and those of other residents, though it may face challenges in altering his viewpoint.

      Compact delivery robots like those from Coco have been in existence for years and are operated by various companies in a highly competitive industry.

      However, some cities, including San Francisco, have seen officials respond negatively by limiting the number of robots and confining them to areas with minimal pedestrian traffic.

      It remains to be seen whether Robertson’s petition will influence Chicago officials to adopt similar measures.