(10/23/2026 – Boston) State Senator John C. Velis, Senate Chair of the Massachusetts Legislature’s Aviation Caucus, is demanding clear answers, robust state oversight, and enforceable public safety protections as Amazon advances plans for a proposed drone delivery site in Westborough, calling for public safety concerns to be addressed before the project moves forward.
“Emerging technologies like drone delivery have the potential to create new opportunities and make our lives more convenient, but innovation cannot come at the expense of public safety or ignore very real community concerns,” said Senator Velis. “As these technologies develop, we need to make sure they are subject to appropriate oversight, potential risks are thoroughly evaluated, and that residents have a meaningful opportunity to be heard and engage on any operational concerns.”
Velis echoed sentiment sent in a recent letter from the MassDOT Aeronautics Division to Amazon which outlined several concerns raised by the community, including low-altitude flights over private property, the potential for harm to people and property on the ground, and the need to coordinate operations with law enforcement, public safety officials, and other drone operators The MassDOT letter also directed that Amazon cannot begin operating their proposed drone delivery site in Westborough until they complete the required state review, and that a public hearing on the proposed operations is expected in order to provide an opportunity for further discussion and public input.
Velis emphasized the need for close oversight as drone technology continues to evolve, pointing to both global conflicts and local safety concerns. “One only has to look at the war between Russia and Ukraine to understand the impact of drone usage,” said Velis. “Drones are a concern worldwide, and even in my home district of Westfield, drones have been reported in the airspace around Barnes Regional Airport. While the FAA currently oversees drone operations, states need to take action to ensure public safety.” Velis also drew on his own experience with drones during his recent deployment to the southwestern U.S. border, where he witnessed firsthand the challenges and impacts of their use.
Velis noted that he will continue to monitor MassDOT’s review of the proposed Westborough site and follow developments leading up to the anticipated public hearing. In his role as Chair of the Legislature’s Aviation Caucus, Velis will work to ensure that questions surrounding public safety, private property, environmental impacts, and coordination with local officials receive appropriate consideration as the state evaluates the proposal.
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