2024 Parker Special Conference Issue

PARKER 3R D Q UAR T ER 2024

HALIFAX 2024

SPECIAL

CONFERENCE

FOLLOW US: @canadianparking #CPAHalifiax2024

ISSUE canadianparking.ca canadianparking.ca

ANNUAL CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW

SPECIAL CONFERENCE ISSUE 18 SPONSORS | 19-29 SCHEDULE/PLANNER | 30-35 EXHIBITING COMPANIES

36 Electrifying Toronto: The Crucial Path to Sustainable Transportation In Conversation With Taf's Ian Klesmer

8 The AI Evolution in Parking: From Assistance to Autonomy

By Shane Nolan

12 Universities Need to Get More from Their Technology

By Ben Sands

15 2024 Scholarship Program Recipients

40 2025 Insights: Strategic Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Planning for Canadian Parking Facilities

42 Guidance in Reach

By Chris Scheppmann

45 The Canadian Parking Association’s Management Training and Certification (PMC)

By Adamo Donatucci

OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS

CPA STAFF

PRESIDENT

TREASURER

DIRECTORS

Ralph Bond BA Consulting Group Ltd. bond@bagroup.com

Frank Cavaliere RJC Engineers fcavaliere@rjc.ca

Sam Cusick AIMS (EDC) Corp. sam@aimsparking.com

James Mackay Mackay Meters james.mackay@mackaymeters.com

VICE PRESIDENT

SECRETARY

Nicolas Filion Agence de mobilité durable nfilion@agencemobilitedurable.ca

Ken Skinner Crombie REIT ken.skinner@crombie.ca

Anna Marie O’Connell patandamo@gmail.com

Adamo Donatucci Precise Parklink adonatucci@precisebi.com PAST PRESIDENT

Alex MacIsaac University of Toronto a.macisaac@utoronto.ca

Rozanne Haddad Interior Health Authority Rozanne.Haddad@interiorhealth.ca Sharon Lewinson ACT Canada info@actcanada.com

Randy Topolniski Winnipeg Parking Authority randytopolniski@winnipeg.ca

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Carole Whitehorne 613 727 0700 x 10 carole@canadianparking.ca ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR

Teresa Buckley 613 727 0700 x 12 teresa@canadianparking.ca BRAND & COMMUNICATIONS

Brenda Hanna 613 727 0700 x 15 brenda@canadianparking.ca

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FROM THE EDITOR CAROLE WHITEHORNE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Halifax, here we come!

A

s we approach this year’s Annual Conference, I want to share my thoughts on the importance of gathering as an

industry, the timely topics at hand, and the immense value your involvement brings to our community. The landscape of parking management and urban mobility is evolving faster than ever, and it is crucial that we come together at this time to address the challenges and embrace the opportunities this transformation presents. Surely, this is not for the faint-hearted!

Attending the conference is more than just an opportunity to listen to speakers during informative presentations; it is a unique chance to connect with industry peers, share experiences, and forge valuable partnerships. The networking opportunities available at the conference are unparalleled. This is where ideas are born, collaborations flourish, and innovation is sparked.

Whether you are a seasoned executive or a newcomer to the parking and mobility industry, the connections you make during this event can be pivotal to your growth and the success of the CPA.

This year, our agenda is packed with sessions that address the most pressing issues facing parking professionals across Canada. We will explore the impact of emerging technologies, such as automation and smart parking solutions, which are reshaping how you manage your operations.

A significant focus this year will be on mobility and urban changes, as we discuss how evolving urban design and transportation dynamics are influencing parking strategies in communities.

Sessions will dig into how parking management must adapt to accommodate trends like micromobility, ridesharing services, and electric vehicles, and how these factors overlap with urban development goals.

Additionally, we will examine the challenge of integrating parking plans with broader mobility initiatives. Effective parking management must now consider how vehicles interact with various modes of transportation, whether it’s public transit, cycling, or pedestrian accessibility. Understanding how all this connects is essential for creating urban environments that serve communities while optimizing parking.

PARKER MAGAZINE EDITOR carole@canadianparking.ca 613-727-0700 x 10 ADMINISTRATION teresa@canadianparking.ca 613-727-0700 x 12

Distribution: 2,000

RESERVE YOUR ADVERTISING SPACE TODAY! Call 613-727-0700 Ext. 12 for more details

STAY CONNECTED WITH THE CPA www.canadianparking.ca/contact

DESIGN AND MARKETING brenda@canadianparking.ca 613-727-0700 x 15

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With the return to pre-pandemic routines still unpredictable, it’s vital that we share best practices and learn from each other’s experiences to ensure our mutual success. The COVID-19 pandemic has also drastically altered urban landscapes and commuting patterns, and as a community, it’s crucial to strike a balance between traditional parking roles and the demands of modern mobility.

As we gather for this event in Halifax, I encourage each of you to actively participate, ask questions, and share your insights and make the most of this event to enhance our skills, deepen relationships, and elevate the standards of our industry. Remember, your involvement and collaboration are what make the CPA strong and capable of meeting the challenges that lie ahead.

Your support as members of the Canadian Parking Association cannot be overstated. Each brings invaluable insights and expertise that enrich our association and enhance our collective knowledge. It is your participation and engagement that shapes our conference and ensures that we address the issues that matter most to you. Together, we are a powerful force advocating for the advancement of the parking industry in Canada.

If you haven’t already registered, I invite you to join us at this year's conference. Together, we can bolster our strengths, envision the future of parking, and solidify our commitment to innovative solutions that serve our communities. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the Canadian Parking Association.

I look forward to seeing you all and creating another memorable conference experience! n

The collective wisdom within the CPA’s membership drives our initiatives and outreach, enabling us to raise awareness about the vital role of parking professionals in urban planning and sustainable transport solutions.

Our engagement shapes the future of our association and ensures we address the pressing issues that matter most.

Carole Whitehorne, Executive Director

CPA Associate Partner

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JOIN US OCTOBER 6-9 2024

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FROM THE PRESIDENT RALPH BOND, PRESIDENT

S

ummer is almost gone, and it is time to start getting serious about work again. At the top of your list should be your plans to attend the CPA Annual Conference and Trade Show in beautiful Halifax from October 6 to 9. The Host Committee (James McKay from McKay Meters & Ken Skinner from Crombie REIT) has helped put together a fantastic program to provide networking opportunities, educational sessions and product information which will help you achieve success as a parking professional over the coming year. Then to top it all off, the Tuesday evening dinner event will be an East Coast Kitchen Party!

Our Monday morning keynote will be about Practical Ways to Leverage AI led by Anh Nguyen, Founder, Spark Initiative Directive. On Tuesday morning, we will have a main stage panel regarding Sustainable Transportation, TDM, Transit and Parking led by Sharon Lewinson, President of Ridehshark.

Monday through Tuesday, we have sixteen technical sessions on topics ranging from transforming a parking company into a Mobility company, to the cost of deferred maintenance. It will be hard to choose from them all!

informative. New members are also invited to the President’s reception at 4:30 pm on Sunday just before the opening ceremonies, where we will be pleased to meet you and advise on how you can benefit from the conference and your CPA membership.

Please do not miss Monday’s Awards Luncheon where we recognize the best people and organizations in the industry that their fellow CPA members have nominated.

Last, but not least, we have another great Trade Show where you can investigate firsthand, a wide array of products and services for your parking operation.

Many thanks to our suppliers, sponsors and delegates for supporting the conference. We could not do this without you! See you at the conference!

I can be reached at bond@bagroup.com. n

Ralph Bond, President

Many thanks to our suppliers, sponsors and delegates for supporting the conference. We could not do this without you! See you at the conference!

If this is your first conference, please try to attend the Sunday afternoon roundtable sector meetings from 1 to 4pm which are quite popular and very

We look forward to seeing you in Halifax this October

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The AI Evolution in Parking: From Assistance to Autonomy

BY SHANE NOLAN

AI HAS BEEN THE BUZZWORD OF THE YEAR, AND MANY GET CAUGHT UP IN THE HYPE, DREAMING OF A FUTURE WHERE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE MANAGES EVERYTHING, INCLUDING PARKING MANAGEMENT. BUT LET’S BE REALISTIC, EXPECTING AN AUTONOMOUS SYSTEM TO MANAGE PARKING AND ENFORCE COMPLIANCE ON ITS OWN IS JUST NOT PRACTICAL.

A fully automated model makes great marketing, but it’s crucial to remember that public acceptance is key in our industry. A staged deployment is necessary to ensure both operators and the public are comfortable with how new technology operates.

One of the biggest concerns we hear from parking directors is the risk of sending tickets to people who don’t deserve them. Can you imagine the backlash? Who in their right mind would stand up and say, “Sure, let’s just let the system handle all the tickets, no questions asked”? As industry providers, do we really want to push solutions that could put our clients on the unemployment line?

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Case Study: The Evolution of License Plate Recognition License plate recognition (LPR) technology has come a long way. We started with people manually capturing images of license plates using handheld devices. Those early systems really depended on human input to process and verify the data. Then, technology took a big step forward when optical character recognition (OCR) cameras were added to handheld devices and vehicles, allowing for automatic capture and recognition of license plates. This game-changer cut down manual data entry and made enforcement much more efficient.

We’re envisioning a future where these solutions not only recognize and compare data more accurately but also blend seamlessly with other urban infrastructure.

These systems were improved to compare recognized license plates against pre-set business rules, like checking if a vehicle is parked legally or if it’s overstayed in a time-restricted zone. This integration of business logic made enforcement more automated and accurate.

Now, these systems can identify vehicle plates, compare them against the parking rules, and determine if the surrounding curb elements are a factor for each vehicle. The use case described here is when a camera detects a vehicle plate, confirms it has a valid payment or permit, and knows the vehicle is parked illegally in front of a fire hydrant. This scenario had to rely on experienced enforcement personnel to identify the conflicting information, or this infraction would have been missed as a paid plate. This level of logic also applies to enforcing disabled parking spaces onand off-street.

The next big leap? We must find realistic ways to apply AI, not just for the sake of it, but also to assist human operators in filtering the volume of conditions and bringing exceptions to the front for further action. Imagine AI systems that don’t just recognize license plates but also recognize “vehicles as objects,” even with a number plate that is difficult to recognize due to obstructions.

This exception can be presented to the operator for action and then continue to cross-reference multiple data sources to make smarter decisions.

AI's Present Impact and Vision for the Future We’re envisioning a future where these solutions not only recognize and compare data more accurately but also blend seamlessly with other urban infrastructure. But let’s be clear—the goal isn’t just advancing technology. It’s about improving the accuracy and efficiency of parking operations. We focus on supporting parking management and enforcement to create better urban experiences, not just winning the AI race.

Currently, the industry is using AI-driven License Plate Recognition (AI LPR) systems and Ticket-byMail solutions to automate enforcement with minimal human supervision and reduce the need for enforcement personnel to be exposed to potential safety risks. AI LPR cameras can improve the process of scanning vehicle license plates, detecting violations, and automating the process of sending tickets (Ticket-by-Mail) to registered vehicle owners without needing to place a paper ticket on the vehicle or potentially becoming engaged with the vehicle’s occupants.

Medford, Massachusetts, uses an award-winning parking enforcement system featuring AI-powered LPR and remote enforcement with Ticket-by-Mail to maintain an impressive 95% compliance rate.

In Kitchener, Canada, AI LPR technology enforces parking rules during peak hours around schools when children arrive and leave. Authorities there have reported a more than 30% increase in parking tickets year over year since implementing the technology. These examples highlight a critical point:

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parking violations are far more prevalent than traditional methods can effectively monitor. AI has become a proven way to enforce these rules consistently, and the results speak for themselves.

And this is just one example of how AI can revolutionize parking enforcement and management, providing more efficient and consistent oversight. As technology advances, there is significant potential for further innovations that can enhance every aspect of parking management, including predictive analytics for optimizing parking resources.

The Framework of AI Progression in Parking: Assisted, Augmented, and Autonomous Assisted AI supports human decision-making with enhanced insights and analytics. Augmented AI is more active and can suggest actions based on exceptions and data patterns. Autonomous AI operates independently, managing parking operations with minimal human intervention optimizing efficiency and resource use in real-time.

1. Assisted AI: a Tool to Support Parking Managers In parking management, Assisted AI can revolutionize how we use data-driven insights to optimize operations with more informed decisions and better control over the process.

A practical example is AI-driven parking occupancy analytics, where AI analyzes data from cameras, sensors, and historical records to provide real-time insights into parking lot occupancy rates, trends, and usage patterns.

Detailed reports and visual dashboards can help parking managers understand how their facilities are used, anticipate peak times, and adjust space allocation and staffing accordingly.

The key advantage of Assisted AI is that it empowers parking managers with enhanced visibility and predictive insights while leaving the final decisions in their hands. By identifying inefficiencies and suggesting areas for improvement, AI helps optimize operations without removing the human element.

2. Augmented AI: Enhanced Decision-Making with Actionable Insights Unlike Assisted AI, which primarily supports human decision-making, Augmented AI takes a more proactive approach. It interprets complex data sets, identifies patterns, and proposes specific actions to optimize operations—with solutions your experts might not have immediately considered. Still, humans retain ultimate control over the final decisions.

Such tools can be particularly valuable in dynamic pricing strategies. For instance, an Augmented AI system can analyze real-time data on parking lot occupancy, local events, weather conditions, and historical trends to suggest optimal pricing models. If a major event is happening nearby, the AI might recommend increasing parking fees to capitalize on the higher demand while suggesting alternative parking allocations to manage the influx of vehicles more effectively. The AI doesn't just present data; it actively recommends pricing and space management adjustments to revenue and improve customer satisfaction.

3. Autonomous AI: a New Generation of Tools for Minimal Human Input AI-enhanced License Plate Recognition (LPR) cameras are a great example of semi-autonomous technology. These systems use advanced AI to scan and recognize vehicle license plates with impressive accuracy—up to 98% with today’s technology. When the confidence level of a read is high, it often eliminates the need for continual human oversight. This precision saves time for parking management staff, who no longer need to manually verify and record infractions.

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However, it's important to note that this is just the beginning. We can't yet apply this as a blanket rule for all AI technology in parking management. While AI can partially handle the job, regular human checks are still necessary to ensure the logic remains sound.

Fully autonomous AI is meant to operate independently, processing data, making decisions, and acting in real-time. In current real-world applications, full autonomy often falls short. We’ve seen situations where human intervention was still needed to fix errors, like those caused by a simple software update. So, while the technology promises autonomy, the reality is that it often still requires human hands to step in when things go wrong.

Maybe full autonomy shouldn't even be the ultimate goal. The goal should be to streamline operations, create efficiencies, improve safety, and meet customers' needs today while anticipating what they might need tomorrow. As impressive as AI is, it’s here to support, not replace, the human element.

While we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what these systems can do, it’s important to stay grounded to provide reliable, efficient solutions that enhance the customer experience without being distracted by buzzwords.

Future Potential and Considerations for Implementation AI-powered systems will become increasingly adept at managing parking resources without or with less human intervention. For example, AI could help identify areas to improve the parking operation or alert managers to potential problems, allowing them to be proactive versus always reactive.

In addition to operational efficiency, Autonomous AI holds significant promise for improving security, especially for enforcement officers. By integrating AI systems with local law enforcement databases, AI could identify keywords from incident reports—like gunshots or other disturbances—and alert parking enforcement officers to avoid certain areas.

While the legal aspects of inter-agency information sharing need careful consideration, limited access to real-time incident data could improve officer safety by helping them avoid dangerous situations.

AI could also be integrated with 311 systems to alert officers to avoid areas where a public works response is required, further enhancing safety during enforcement.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Shane Nolan, Director of Product Management, gtechna Shane Nolan has a proven track record of success and is the Director of Product Management at gtechna. He is responsible for creating successful products that provide real business value to municipalities and their communities. With extensive expertise in parking management and technology solutions, he has led organizations to improve products for greater efficiency and usability, leading to successful outcomes.

Implementing any advanced parking management and enforcement system comes with legal and infrastructure challenges. For example, in Galveston, Texas, the law had to be changed to allow data sharing with the DMV to make Ticket-by-Mail remote enforcement possible. In Pittsburgh and Hallandale, local street codes were updated to legalize remote parking enforcement, as the old laws didn’t account for this new technology.

These cases show how laws must keep up with technological advancements. Infrastructure issues, like ensuring reliable data access across systems, are also important for making these AI systems work smoothly.

Public perception is another critical factor. While AI can enhance safety and efficiency, concerns about privacy, data security, and the potential for over-reliance on automated systems may exist. As we move toward a future where autonomous AI plays a more significant role in parking management, addressing these challenges will be crucial to fully benefit from this technology. n

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Universities Need to Get More from Their Technology

BY BEN SANDS

Universities, like many parking owners, have spent the past few years automating their parking locations and systems. The automation trend began with the introduction of tools that integrated with Parking Access and Revenue Control Systems (PARCS) to provide a frictionless parking experience. The introduction of frictionless parking suites provided a much more customer-friendly experience while making parking more manageable and cost-effective.

This trend was accelerated by the Covid pandemic. For owners of all types, including universities, the automation strategy they had already begun to consider, or even implement, suddenly provided public health benefits by reducing face-toface interactions between customers and staff. By the time the pandemic had run its course, many universities had fully automated their parking systems.

That said, while campuses across Canada have automated their parking systems, many aren’t using their automated systems to their full capability. Sure, these systems are making campus parking more efficient, but on most campuses the technologies could be doing more.

License Plate Recognition Take, for example, LPR. Many schools have implemented LPR to help manage parking permits as part of gateless, frictionless parking systems. Most universities with gateless operations use mobile LPR for enforcement. When a parked vehicle’s license plate is scanned, the LPR recognizes the vehicle as belonging to a permitted parker. If a car without a permit enters the lot, the system flags the vehicle for enforcement action.

It’s a simple, effective system for managing permits. It’s costeffective, too, because it doesn’t require on-site staff to manage entry and egress, and it minimizes the number of enforcement officers required to serve a parking lot or parkade. By eliminating the need for physical hang tags or transponders to identify permit parkers, it can also save colleges and universities

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thousands of dollars spent to produce physical permits, replace them when they are inevitably lost or damaged, and manage the overall permit process.

LPR systems can provide much more value, though, and most colleges and universities aren’t getting that value. Most notably, LPR can provide occupancy data regarding who is using particular lots and parkades, and when they are doing so.

Mobile LPR can also provide information about how the spaces within a facility fill, remain occupied over time, and empty. When mobile LPR takes a scan, it provides geographic information system (GIS) coordinates to that scan. In short, the LPR can tell parking managers which parking facility a particular vehicle is using and what type of parker (resident student, commuting student, faculty, staff, or visitor) it is. That information could be made available to parking managers in real-time so they can understand exactly how campus parking resources are being utilized at that particular moment.

The data can also be archived so parking planners can make more informed decisions about how to manage campus parking assets. By analyzing utilization trends over specific periods of time, campus planners can understand how class schedules impact parking and then rework class schedules in ways that put less stress on parking resources and reduce congestion on campus. Archival data can also help planners understand mobility trends overall, including who is driving, how many students and staff are using micromobility, and how many visitors require parking. It can also help college administrators understand how many vehicles are essentially sedentary, used every few weeks by resident students, and how many are driving to and from campus daily. This is all essential data for managing parking assets more effectively.

The effectiveness of smart technologies is defined by how the technologies are applied, implemented, and utilized. While most colleges and universities have implemented one or more smart parking technologies, many don’t use their tools to their fullest capabilities.

Effective management is more important than ever. There is more competition today between colleges and universities, and parking is an essential service and amenity that impacts students’ choice.

Incoming students want to be able to bring their personal vehicles to college, and colleges and universities that have efficiently run parking systems that can accommodate all vehicles have a decided advantage as they recruit new students.

parking planners who parked, but rather what type of parker used the parking facility, and when. This is essential information for managing parking assets without compromising individual users.

One reason that colleges and universities have been slow to access all the data capabilities of LPR is concerns over privacy.

Even institutions that collect and use parking data often wipe it every 30 days to protect the privacy of people who are parking in campus lots and parkades. Data security should be an elemental concern for everyone, and it’s particularly important in an academic environment.

Another way in which many colleges and universities aren’t getting enough out of their LPR is enforcement. Just as LPR can provide data about utilization to parking managers, it can also provide data about payment compliance to enforcement officers. Campus enforcement personnel are much more effective—and efficient— when they have access to LPR enforcement data.

As important as privacy is, it’s easily managed. Parking data can be tokenized, and never needs to be individualized. So, rather than associating a vehicle’s permit with an individual, it can be tied to a parking type: resident student, commuting student, staff, or faculty. When the data is collected and analyzed, it won’t tell

Enforcement

There are two ways in which LPR can help with parking enforcement. The most obvious and direct is permit management.

When fixed LPR cameras mounted at an entry record the passage of an unpermitted vehicle, they can record the license plate information and transmit it, along with the parking location, to enforcement officers. Officers can then be dispatched to

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that parking lot or parkade to ticket the vehicle or leave a warning notification letting the parker know where they are authorized to park when they visit in the future. This reduces the need for continual patrolling of the parking facilities by enforcement vehicles.

Another common issue at colleges and universities is that they maintain separate camera systems for law enforcement and parking. For instance, some universities have security cameras that are also used to keep track of repeat-offending vehicles or drivers on law enforcement watch lists. It makes no sense to utilize this hardware but not have it communicate with the campus parking department. Modern cameras are very versatile and able to manage more than one function at a time. When there are both law enforcement and parking cameras in a parking lot or parkade, they can either be consolidated to a single camera performing multiple functions, or at minimum should be set up to talk to each other.

All About Data In the smart technology age, institutions need to treat smart technologies differently than past tools. For starters, this means ending the practice of departmental siloing.

When departments share data, it paints a more robust and contextualized picture of what is actually happening on campus.

The people who use the data on a daily basis are best positioned to understand what’s lacking in terms of data collection. Ideally, colleges and universities should hold regular data summits to examine the data that’s collected, where it comes from, what’s being connected, and how it’s being communicated. This process can help universities use their technology to its greatest capacity. The institution’s parking consultant can also be included in this process because they can serve as an independent arbiter who can bring to the table the experiences of other universities that have faced similar challenges.

The effectiveness of smart technologies is defined by how the technologies are applied, implemented, and utilized. While most colleges and universities have implemented one or more smart parking technologies, many don’t use their tools to their fullest capabilities. A linked system that collects and integrates data from all technology located in parking facilities, and formal, strategic process for managing that data is essential to getting the most out of your technology. n

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ben Sands is Manager of Parking Planning and Operations for WGI Inc. He can be reached at Benjamin.Sands@wginc.com.

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2024 Scholarship Program Recipients THE CANADIAN PARKING ASSOCIATION CONGRATULATES THE WINNERS OF THE 2024 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM The Board of Directors of the Canadian Parking Association and the Canadian Parking Foundation are pleased to announce this year’s recipients for the CPA Scholarship program. To date, this program has provided over $292,000 in awards to deserving students.

Devon Felt

Okanagan College, Bach. Business I am 21 years old student from Kelowna, BC, and am entering my fourth and final year of the business administration degree at Okanagan College. When I am not at school I will be continuing to work at a local restaurant and keep active playing sports as that is a big passion of mine. After this year and graduation, I will be eagerly looking for a job related to business and sports to be able to combine my education and passions.

Avery Talbot

University of Guelph, Bach. ‘Gender Politics’ I will be entering my third year at the university of Guelph in Sexuality, gender and social change, with a minor in Philosophy. With this degree I plan to complete my master’s and then work as a women's advocate. Outside of school I continue to work and partake in my county's 4H program with beef cattle. I am excited to have been awarded this scholarship which will allow me to further my education.

Dylan Fletcher

Carleton University, Bach. Electrical Engineering Dylan will be entering his second year of Electrical Engineering at Carleton University in the fall. In his spare time, Dylan enjoys playing music and hiking. This past summer as a member of the Burlington Teen Tour Band he represented the youth of Canada at the 80th anniversary of D-Day on Juno Beach.

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THE POWER OF CONNECTION Halifax, NS from October 6-9 for the Annual Conference and Trade Show.

Halifax Convention Centre & Sutton Place Hotel​ The Canadian Parking Association’s Annual Conference & Trade Show is the place to be inspired, discover something new, socialize with industry peers and develop lasting relationships through the Power of Connection.

​EXPERIENCE the power of being in-person with industry experts LEARN and share what’s new and trending in parking and mobility NETWORK with industry peers and make new connections MARKET your products and services, generate leads and complete sales at the trade show

REGISTER

TODAY

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES 16 SPECIAL CONFERENCE ISSUE | PARKER 3RD QUARTER 2024

SPONSOR HERE

Right in the Heart of Downtown Halifax

HOST HOTEL

ACCOMMODATIONS Limited rooms still availability is still available for some conference dates at the host hotel. Regular rates will apply. There are several hotel options available near the Halifax Convention Centre.

SPECIAL CONFERENCE ISSUE | PARKER 3RD QUARTER 2024

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Canadian Parking Association Annual Conference & Trade Show

THANK YOU CONFERENCE SPONSORS

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ONLINE CONFERENCE PLANNER canadianparking.ca/planner2024

CONFERENCE ADMISSION Name Badges must be worn at all times to gain entrance to the various events. Tickets are also required for the Awards Dinner and Tuesday’s Celebrate Success event.

Trade Show Passes include access to the exhibition hall only during the time specified on the badge.

Lost name badges and event tickets must be reported at Registration. A replacement fee will be charged. Event tickets are subject to limits, and may not be available for re-purchase.

REGISTRATION Sunday - Tuesday 7:30 am - 5:00 pm

Convention Centre - Convention Hall Level

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6 | SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE *Schedule is subject to change

9:00 am – 11:30 am

4:30 – 5:30 pm

Board of Directors Meeting

President’s Reception for New Members

1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Round Table Sector Meetings • Airports • Hospitals/Private Operators • Municipalities • Universities/College Delegates participate in face-to-face discussions with peers from their sector to share information and experiences.

Open to Sector members only. (Hospital meeting will be open to Private Operators) Coffee Break | 2:30 pm – 3:00 pm

(By invitation only) 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm

TRADE SHOW GRAND OPENING

Reception, Opening Remarks, and the Opening Trade Show exhibition is a time to visit vendors and scope out the latest in innovation, technology, and to see what’s trending. Start the dialogue and set the pace for the sessions to follow.

8:30 pm

Unscheduled Evening

SPECIAL CONFERENCE ISSUE | PARKER 3RD QUARTER 2024

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MONDAY, OCTOBER 7 | SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE

7:45 am –8:30 am

Breakfast 8:20 am – 8:30 am

BREAKOUT SESSIONS 11:15 am – 12:10 pm

Session A | Room 106

Welcome Address

The Aesthetic Versatility and Function of Contemporary Parking Structures

8:30 am – 9:45 am

Margaret Hawkins, Principal, Architect, DRKR Architects

Main Stage Keynote Not Another AI Session: Actual, Practical Ways to Leverage AI

Stephanie Nowe-Morris, Project Director, Build Nova Scotia

10:00 am – 10:15 am

Session B | Room 108

Frictionless Parking is Here!

Nigel Bullers, CEO, EasyPark

Coffee Break

Paul Yakutchik, COO, Fennix

10:00 am – 11:00 am

Session C | Room 109

Exhibitor/Vendor Meeting

BREAKOUT SESSIONS 10:15 am – 11:10 am

Session A | Room 106

A Municipal Parking to Mobility Company Redefining Toronto’s Transportation Landscape Jarrett McDonald, Vice President Operations, Toronto Parking Authority

Session B | Room 108

Embracing the “Good Enough”: Cost Constraints and Creative Counting Taegan Mohle, Parking Coordinator, Simon Fraser University

Shirley Rodriguez, CEO, ZipBy

Electric Vehicles Versus Cold Canadian Winters – Saskatoon’s Initial Results Bill Franklin, President, Tannery Creek Systems Wayne Sum, Parking Services Manager, City of Saskatoon 12:15 pm – 1:30 pm

AWARDS LUNCHEON Tickets required for this event 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm

TRADE SHOW EXHIBITION

Coffee Break & Host Bar | 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm 5:300 pm

Unscheduled Evening

Michael Murray, President, Concord Parking

Session C | Room 109

Getting Ahead: A Panel Discussion on Goal Setting Roger Steers, RJC Engineers Shannon Talbot, University of Guelph Melina Morokhovich, T2 Systems Jody Backes, T2 Systems *Schedule is subject to change

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ONLINE CONFERENCE PLANNER canadianparking.ca/planner2024

MONDAY, OCTOBER 7 | MAIN STAGE KEYNOTE

Not Another AI Session: Actual, Practical Ways to Leverage AI

KEYNOTE

Anh Nguyen, Founder, Spark Event Collective

PA N E L I S T S

Nicolas Filion, CIO, Agence de mobilité durable de Montréal

Alexandra Maillot, Head of Business Development, Survision

Shane Nolan, Director, Product Management, gtechna

By now, you can’t go anywhere without seeing AI everywhere. It’s generating photos, it’s writing music, it’s creating art, it’s even driving for us. You’re likely already using AI to speed up administrative tasks to make yourself more efficient at your job. But how else can you incorporate AI into your day to day?

From using AI to predict parking demand, to AI powered surveillance, to utilizing AI to manage pricing, any organization who wants to stay competitive needs to not only use AI, but understand its implications on every facet of planning. But where do you start? what are the important tools? and how do you work with AI to make you more effective before it makes you redundant?

Join Anh Nguyen, an entrepreneur and tech junkie, who is living the same AI rollercoaster as you, as she demystifies the jargon and complexity around AI. Our Parking panelists will enlighten you on the current state of AI tools that are in play today and coming in the near future. You’ll walk away with an understanding of the basics of generative AI, a list of use cases where you can start using AI immediately in your jobs, and a shift in mindset as you approach AI in your role.

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MONDAY, OCTOBER 7 | BREAKOUT SESSIONS

A Municipal Parking to Mobility Company Redefining Toronto’s Transportation Landscape Jarrett McDonald, Vice President Operations, Toronto Parking Authority Embark on a journey with the Toronto Parking Authority (TPA), where parking transcends into an inspirational mobility experience. TPA's evolution from a traditional provider to a visionary municipal-owned mobility company signifies a commitment to redefine Toronto's transportation landscape.

Discover Mobility Hubs that transform parking lots into dynamic spaces, featuring EV chargers and innovative B2B services. Seamless modal stacking, transit integration, and bike-share connectivity create holistic mobility solutions. Experience the future with ticketless systems, occupancy monitoring, and digital wayfinding, enhancing every user's journey. TPA's customer-centric approach introduces subscription-based services, diverse payments, and a B2B focus, offering unparalleled flexibility.

Witness sustainable practices, economic vitality, and groundbreaking innovations as TPA pioneers pay-by-plate meters, real-time space tracking, and unified EV charging. The Toronto Bike Share program reflects TPA's commitment to an eco-friendly, healthier lifestyle, making TPA a trailblazer, reshaping urban mobility in Toronto with forwardthinking solutions.

Embracing the “Good Enough”: Cost Constraints and Creative Counting Taegan Mohle, Parking Coordinator, Simon Fraser University Michael Murray, President, Concord Parking In an industry that relies heavily on data to make informed parking management decisions, obtaining accurate and comprehensive data for decision making can be a daunting, and costly task. Facing budget constraints, how do you find innovative and cost-effective solutions to address the complexities of parking management?

Embracing the “Good Enough” sheds light on how readily available data can be used to optimize parking solutions, even within budget constraints. Showcasing a practical example from Simon Fraser University – this presentation discusses the successful implementation of “Good Enough” data and collection methods to enhance their parking management decisions.

Getting Ahead: A Panel Discussion on Goal Setting Roger Steers, RJC Engineers Shannon Talbot, University of Guelph Melina Morokhovich, T2 Systems Jody Backes, T2 Systems Join this interactive panel discussion to examine different methods of goal setting, explore the advantages and challenges of setting specific and measurable targets in both personal and professional settings and learn how our panelists track progress towards those goals. The outcome will be a lively discussion where the panelists will share some real-world examples of goal setting within their various organizations. The questions asked will aim to provide the audience with practical insights and strategies they can apply to their own operations while giving them the chance to share their own unique experiences with setting goals.

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MONDAY, OCTOBER 7 | BREAKOUT SESSIONS

The Aesthetic Versatility and Function of Contemporary Parking Structures

Frictionless Parking is Here!

Nigel Bullers, CEO, EasyPark

Margaret Hawkins, Principal, Architect, DRKR Architects

Paul Yakutchik, COO, Fennix

Stephanie Nowe-Morris, Project Director, Build Nova Scotia

Shirley Rodriguez, CEO, ZipBy

The aesthetics and function of a structure are critical; they're what most people identify with it. Contemporary parking facilities have become a community building type as they are the entry point to our hospitals, campuses, airports, and public buildings.

Integrating a parking structure into the evolving urban setting and transportation systems requires the contemporary parking facility to address new expectations regarding aesthetics, sustainability and functional and operational issues, like safety and security.

This presentation will provide a design and function overview of how QEII Parking Garage Halifax, NS, meets these new parking expectations. It will demonstrate the power of innovation by challenging conventional norms and infusing the precast concrete structure with art and community-friendly features. The presentation will also highlight public consultation, design-build specifications, parking layout, dismountable and expandable features, possible future development of a public roof garden and photovoltaic technologies.

Over the past decade, EasyPark has been at the forefront of creating a frictionless parking experience.

Recently, we've taken this mission to the next level by partnering with Fennix and ZipBy to establish "Technology Testing Hubs," where we pilot and refine groundbreaking innovations. In the summer of 2024, this collaboration resulted in the successful launch of a new feature that allows users to raise parking gates through a mobile app, completely eliminating the need for manual effort. Attendees will gain insights into how this milestone was achieved, the obstacles we overcame during the development process, and the future advancements we anticipate in the realm of frictionless parking. Whether you're looking to adopt new technologies or stay ahead of industry trends, this presentation will provide valuable takeaways on the evolution of frictionless parking.

Electric Vehicles Versus Cold Canadian Winters – Saskatoon’s Initial Results Bill Franklin, President, Tannery Creek Systems Wayne Sum, Parking Services Manager, City of Saskatoon

The Electric Vehicle revolution is everywhere, featured in news headlines, YouTube EV road reviews, endlessly analyzed in business publications, pursued, and promoted by politicians. This amazing sea change after 120 years of the internal combustion engine (ICE) has inspired city councils to mandate fleet services switch to electric. Alas, this is where the rubber hits the road, and reality and reason collide with aspirations.

The City of Saskatoon’s Parking management investigated and tested the performance of an all-electric vehicle to evaluate its capability and capacity for service use in the harsh Saskatoon winter weather.

We will report on our expectations and actual performance of the vehicle to give our listeners a better idea on the practicality of an all-electric vehicle service vehicle when subjected to the rigors of Canadian winters.

SPECIAL CONFERENCE ISSUE | PARKER 3RD QUARTER 2024

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 | SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE BREAKOUT SESSIONS

7:30 am – 8:30 am

Breakfast

2:00 pm – 2:55 pm

Session A

8:00 am – 8:30 am

Annual General Meeting

Turning Off-street Parking into Mobility Hubs in Montreal

8:30 am – 9:30 am

Antoine Sambin, Director of mobility strategies

Main Stage Panel

Pegah Nouri, Director of parking management

Sustainable Transportation, TDM, Transit and Parking: Challenges, opportunities, best practices and experiences.

Agence de mobilité durable de Montréal

9:30 am – 1:45 pm

Ian Hodgins, Head of Growth & Partnerships, Hypercharge Network Corp

Session B

The Road to Electrification: A Strategic Blueprint for Canadian Organizations Andrew Sgorlon, Technical Sales Support Manager, Precise ParkLink Inc.

FINAL TRADE SHOW EXHIBITION

Session B

The City of Vancouver's Parking Enforcement Outreach Task Force

Coffee Break | 10:00 am – 10:45 am Lunch | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Om Mogerman, Manager, Parking Operations & Enforcement, City of Vancouver 3:00 pm – 3:15 pm

Coffee Break

*Schedule is subject to change

MAIN STAGE PANEL Sustainable Transportation, TDM, Transit and Parking: Challenges, opportunities, best practices and experiences.

Join an engaging discussion featuring experts from a Regional Municipality, a University, and a leading Consultant as they delve into the evolving landscape of sustainable transportation. This panel will explore critical challenges and opportunities related to transportation demand management (TDM), public transit systems, and parking solutions in urban environments. Panelists will share real-world experiences, innovative best practices, and case studies that demonstrate how cities and institutions can balance sustainability goals with practical needs.

Patricia Hughes, Director of Planning and Customer Engagement, Halifax Transit Stephanie MacPhee, Executive Director, Office of Sustainability, Dalhousie University Amanda McIlveen, Associate Manager, Transportation Planning, Parking Lead, Arcadis Moderator: Sharon Lewinson, President, RideShark Corp.

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 | SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE BREAKOUT SESSIONS

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

3:15 pm – 4:10 pm

4:15 pm – 5:10 pm

Session A

Session A

Dan Mathers, CEO, eleven-x

Joni Eros, Regional Sales Director, PayByPhone

Faiyaz Patel, Toronto Parking Authority

Sang Hwang, Regional Sales Director, PayByPhone

Maxime Rivard, Agence de mobilité durable de Montréal

Teresa Trussell, Director of Client Success, PayByPhone

Session B

David Agosti, Director of Parking and Sustainable Mobility, Simon Fraser University (SFU)

Using Data to Impact Demand, Planning and the Curb

Parking Smarts: Navigating Tech in Campus Dynamics Cameron Neufeld, Director, Office of Parking & Transportation, University of Manitoba Randa Kachkar, Manager, Parking Services, University of Alberta Kacey Siskind, Senior Vice President, HONK

Session C

The Cost of Deferred Maintenance: Why Spending Money Makes Sense.

Nigel Parker, Principal, RJC Engineers

Fostering Success through Tech Partnerships: Leveraging Synergies for Growth

Mindip Janda, Vice President, Concord Parking

Ryan Tuttroen, Assistant Manager - Enforcement Supervisor and Bylaw Prosecutions, University of Saskatchewan Parking and Transportation Services

Session B

Enhance your Parkers Experience with Visual Occupancy Insights Phillip Curley, Head of HotSpot Parking Inc. Jeff Nephew, Team Lead, Senior Advisor to Parking, Halifax Regional Municipality 6:30 pm – 11:00 pm

Celebrating Success!

CELEBRATING SUCCESS!

MacKay Meters Kitchen Party Join us in the Mackay Meters family kitchen for a celebration to mark another successful conference with a hometown Maritime flair.

Cable Wharf 1751 Lower Water St., Halifax Tickets required for this event

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 | BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Turning Off-street Parking into Mobility Hubs in Montreal Antoine Sambin, Director of mobility strategies Pegah Nouri, Director of parking management Agence de mobilité durable de Montréal Many cities have decided to develop a mobility hubs network through their territory to gather sustainable mobility services like carsharing, bike sharing, secured bike stations, landing spot for carpooling or taxi, charging stations for electric vehicles, etc.

This presentation will detail Montreal’s future mobility hubs: the concept, the objectives, the services provided, the location selection and prioritization methodology, and the deployment strategy. The presentation will also focus on the business model, the role of the Agence de mobilité durable de Montreal and the relations with the service operators. The presentation will also detail the first implementation of the concept at the parking lot closed to Masson Street in Montreal.

The Road to Electrification: A Strategic Blueprint for Canadian Organizations Andrew Sgorlon, Technical Sales Support Manager, Precise ParkLink Inc. Ian Hodgins, Head of Growth & Partnerships, Hypercharge Network Corp Discover the strategic roadmap to position your organization at the forefront of the Electric Vehicle revolution in Canada.

From unlocking lucrative rebates to choosing cuttingedge tech and deploying effective program management strategies, we’ll guide you through the essentials. Be inspired by a captivating case study showcasing successful integration at a prominent healthcare institution in Mississauga, ON. Take advantage of this opportunity to revolutionize your parking operations, embracing sustainability and staying ahead in the evolving Canadian parking landscape.

The City of Vancouver's Parking Enforcement Outreach Task Force Om Mogerman, Manager, Parking Operations & Enforcement, City of Vancouver A case study on the parking enforcement strategy to support and manage unhoused people living in RV's across the City of Vancouver. This presentation will share the learnings that Vancouver's Parking Enforcement department has made doing the difficult work of supporting a marginalized and high risk population while upholding and enforcing the City's By-laws.

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 | BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Using Data to Impact Demand, Planning and the Curb Dan Mathers, CEO, eleven-x Faiyaz Patel, Toronto Parking Authority Maxime Rivard, Agence de mobilité durable de Montréal This session will feature case studies of the cities of Toronto and Montreal to showcase how cities can leverage data to optimize their parking assets to enhance revenues and streamline operations. The case studies will provide insights on relevant use cases: • Managing on-street parking utilization and improving compliance • Using data to understand and balance demand and improve curbside management • Influencing asset management and infrastructure planning.

Parking Smarts: Navigating Tech in Campus Dynamics Cameron Neufeld, Director, Office of Parking & Transportation, University of Manitoba Randa Kachkar, Manager, Parking Services, University of Alberta Kacey Siskind, Senior Vice President, HONK In an age dominated by rapid tech advancements, how do we ensure our campus parking systems stay ahead of the curve? Join us for an insightful panel where a campus parking professional and contactless payment specialist delve into evolving campus parking solutions in the tech era.

We'll tackle challenges in balancing current student needs with future technological advancements, emphasizing the impact of contactless payments on parking efficiency. This discussion offers strategies for space management, adapting to changing demands, and integrating tech for sustainable solutions. Attendees will leave equipped with best practices and collaborative approaches, essential for decision-makers in educational institutions.

The Cost of Deferred Maintenance: Why Spending Money Makes Sense Nigel Parker, Principal, RJC Engineers Everyday parking structure owners and operators are tasked with the challenge of managing structural, architectural, and moisture protection elements to maintain the value, safety, and function of their structures, while minimizing expenditures. In recent years these challenges have become more pronounced as inflation has increased capital costs, resulting in deferral of projects, while additional capital is raised. But what are the actual costs of deferring capital projects and routine maintenance?

Is it cheaper to defer the project while building a capital fund, or borrow cash and do the project now?

Attendees will gain an understanding of: the life cycle of parking structures; the financial and liability costs associated with deferring routine maintenance and/or capital repair projects; identifying the need to undertake life cycle planning for the asset; and the importance of maintenance and timely repairs.

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 | BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Fostering Success through Tech Partnerships: Leveraging Synergies for Growth Joni Eros, Regional Sales Director, PayByPhone Sang Hwang, Regional Sales Director, PayByPhone Teresa Trussell, Director of Client Success, PayByPhone Mindip Janda, Vice President, Concord Parking David Agosti, Director of Parking and Sustainable Mobility, Simon Fraser University (SFU) Ryan Tuttroen, Assistant Manager - Enforcement Supervisor and Bylaw Prosecutions, University of Saskatchewan Parking and Transportation Services In this fireside chat, we will discuss the benefits of partnering with a boutique vendor with specialized skills, and the ability to bring in tech partnerships to meet custom client needs, versus a large entity with a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. We will touch on specific success stories with industry organizations and the various tech partnerships employed to meet their unique needs.

We will engage the audience to cultivate a dialogue where multiple perspectives can be shared and encourage questions for knowledge sharing. Our panel of experts will include PayByPhone, Concord Parking, Simon Fraser University and The University of Regina.

Enhance your Parkers Experience with Visual Occupancy Insights Phillip Curley, Head of HotSpot Parking Inc. Jeff Nephew, Team Lead, Senior Advisor to Parking, Halifax Regional Municipality Cities like Halifax, Québec and Edmonton have taken a significant step towards improving the parking experience for drivers.

By providing up-to-date information about available parking with real-time occupancy map features, drivers can plan their trips in advance, knowing exactly where they can find conveniently located parking spaces near their destination, saving time and reducing traffic congestion while promoting a more sustainable and efficient transportation system.

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9 | TECHNICAL TOUR

10:00 am – 1:00 pm

QEII Parking Garage Join moderators Andrew Levatte, Strescon and Stephanie Nowe-Morris, SNM architect Ltd to view the transformation of a conventional parking garage into a work of art and a community-supported enhanced space; garage Bluetooth wireless technology; the garage is partially clad with stainless steel grillage, which provides an aesthetic ‘mask’; the extra-long spans of the precast double tees and the use of light walls offer more natural light and stability in the transverse direction: The garage is demountable and can be used permanently or disassemble and moved to another location.

This is a 10 minute walk from the Conference Centre.

Departing from Sutton Place Hotel Lobby

CPA CONFERENCES 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997

Thunder Bay Toronto Calgary Saint John Vancouver Ottawa Halifax Hamilton Edmonton Ottawa Victoria Quebec City Calgary Toronto

1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

1984-2025

Vancouver Montreal Winnipeg Saint John Calgary Ottawa/Gatineau Vancouver Niagara Falls Edmonton Charlottetown Victoria Quebec City Whistler Niagara Falls

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025

Calgary Montréal St. John's Vancouver Ottawa Banff Toronto Victoria Virtual Vancouver Quebec City Calgary Halifax Vancouver

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EXHIBITING COMPANIES

Visit the Trade Show and learn the latest in parking and mobility innovation!

EXHIBITING COMPANIES CONFIRMED AS OF SEPT 13TH

A1 Innovation Group www.A1innovationgroup.com A1 Innovation Group, is a leading provider of smart building technology solutions, specializing in people counting systems, parking guidance, IoT solutions, and EV charging. We deliver integrated, data-driven solutions that enhance operational efficiency, sustainability, and user experience. With a strong focus on design, implementation, and seamless integration, our expert team works closely with clients to tailor solutions that meet their unique needs. By leveraging innovative technology and strategic partnerships, we empower businesses and communities to optimize resource use, reduce environmental impact, and create smarter, more connected spaces.

Advanced Polymer Technology Corp. www.advpolytech.com Qualideck traffic coating system - provides concrete protection & waterproofing to parking garage concrete floor areas - & installed by approved applicators/ contractors throughout Canada. Peter Alessi phone: 416-818-8622 email: peteralessi@cogeco.ca

AIMS (EDC Corporation) aimsparking.com Our AIMS Parking Management Software provides a comprehensive parking management system in one package.

AIMS functionality includes permit

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management, ticket management, tow management, events management, license plate recognition and pay by phone. AIMSWeb provides an e-commerce solution for clients to utilize any browser, smartphone, or tablet to view their parking history, register vehicles, pay or appeal tickets, purchase parking permits, and more.

AIMS LPR provides automated in-vehicle enforcement utilizing advanced License Plate Recognition technology that integrates seamlessly to AIMS. AIMS Mobile Enforcement provides real-time parking ticket issuance, real-time lookups and integration to AIMS as well as third party systems including; Pay-by-Phone, Pay-by-Plate and Pay-by-Space vendors for ease of enforcement.

Amano McGann Canada Inc. www.amanomcgann.ca Amano McGann Canada Inc. is a parking technology solutions company headquartered in Ottawa. For nearly 40 years, we have been developing, manufacturing, installing, and servicing parking solutions throughout North America. We are the largest parking solutions manufacturer and distributor in North America and, as a leader in the parking industry, we install and support our customers throughout Canada from coast-to-coastto-coast.

Amano McGann has completed over 7,000 installations across North America and our clients include healthcare facilities, airports, municipalities, educational institutions, event venues, hotels, offices, and retail centers. Our two main product lines are our Overture and Amano ONE Series PARCS.

EXHIBITING COMPANIES

Canada Ticket Inc.

Curb IQ

www.canadaticket.com

www.curbiq.io

Specializing in ticket printing since 1979, Canada Ticket is one of North America’s most diverse specialty printers.

Our flexibility allows us to customize our products to meet your needs and equipment specifications: thermal rolls/fan-folded, season-tickets, barcoded/variable imaging, magnetic-striped, spitter/machine-dispensed, and a whole lot more.

Understand, manage, and optimize your curbside with CurbIQ. By digitizing curbside regulations, CurbIQ helps cities better understand how their curbs are working today and gives them modern tools to improve operations in the future. With a rich background in public- and private-sector consulting, the CurbIQ team intimately understands the needs of curbside users and the challenges they face. CurbIQ is a product of Arcadis and shares their parent company with HotSpot Parking.

Canadian Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (CPCI) www.cpci.ca The Canadian Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (CPCI) is the technical institute for the precast concrete structures industry. CPCI develops, maintains, and disseminates the Body of Knowledge (BOK) necessary for designing, fabricating, and constructing precast concrete structures. The BOK refers to the collective knowledge of an industry that is relied upon to design and build with a specific material or system. It is from this BOK that building codes, design guides, education programs, and more are derived.

Concord Parking concordparking.com Concord Parking provides a complete range of parking management services across Canada and the USA. We utilize License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology combined with our proprietary cloud-based permitting solution to provide effective permitting and enforcement services to universities, hospitals, municipalities, and both commercial and residential properties. Our modular system, Concord CTRL, streamlines the parking management process and allows our clients to choose only the components they require. Concord Parking is a division of the Paladin Security Group which employs more than 20,000 employees across 68 offices in 9 provinces and 25 states in North America.

Electromega Ltd. www.electromega.com Electromega is a leader in intelligent transportation systems and smart cities solutions for the parking and traffic industry across Canada. We provide integrated solutions, expertise and services. Come see our newest innovative solutions for smart parking management and operation, parking guidance sensor system, network devices and IoT for the reality of urban environment.

We offer systems for curbside management, urban guidance, park & ride, corporate shopping centre, trucks and buses, EV, delivery area and more.

eleven-x Inc. www.eleven-x.com eleven-x’s award-winning eXactpark™ occupancy monitoring and curbside solution ensures that spaces are available anywhere, anytime for drivers when they want to park while providing accurate real-time wayfinding to those available spots. Additionally, our platform captures detailed usage data and provides reports and insights for parking administrators based on individual spaces or zones to support use cases including real-time monitoring, intelligent enforcement, demand-based pricing, guidance and more. eXactpark improves driver experience and makes managing and optimizing parking assets easy.

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EXHIBITING COMPANIES FAAC Parking Solutions

globatech

www.faacparkingsolutions.com

globatech.ca

For more than 50 years, FAAC Parking Solutions has been synonymous with innovation, continuously shaping the way we emerge in the marketplace. Customize your parking success with FAAC Technologies' unparalleled product versatility. Leading the way in transforming the North American parking scene, our revolutionary Jupiter/ JMS (HUB) and X60/SPARK (TIBA) parking systems set the pace. Anchored in our steadfast dedication to customer satisfaction and groundbreaking innovation, we promise excellence in every solution. Our seamless integration with leading 3rd-party technologies and native digital applications provides easy access to highquality tools for improved mobility and sustainability.

Dive deeper at: www.faacparkingsolutions.com

Since 1985, logic-contrôle has been a pioneer in unified security and parking management technologies.

Specializing in tailored solutions, they enhance facility security, optimize building access control, and efficiently manage parking operations to maximize revenue. Serving Quebec, Ontario, and the Maritimes, logic-contrôle is recognized as a leader in the Canadian parking equipment industry. They proudly contribute to major parking projects across Quebec, with all equipment manufactured domestically in Canada.

FlashParking www.flashparking.com The modern parker demands a seamless digital experience in today's rapidly evolving mobility landscape. Staying ahead of changing behavior requires more control, visibility, and insight than ever. Flash is the only global platform connecting cloud parking software to electric vehicle charging and mobility transformation.

Our award-winning platform–powering our Revenue Management & Access Control, Digital Demand, and EV Charging Solutions – delivers parking operators and asset owners a sure thing, connecting your parking asset back to your business and giving you operational control. Visit www.FlashOS.com to learn more.

Genetec Inc. www.genetec.com Genetec Inc. is a global technology company that has been transforming the physical security industry for over 25 years. The company’s portfolio of solutions enables enterprises, governments, and communities around the world to secure people and assets, and support operational efficiency, while respecting individual privacy.

Based on an open architecture, and built with cybersecurity at their core, Genetec solutions can be implemented on-premises, in the cloud, or in hybrid deployments.

The company’s flagship products, Genetec Security Center and Genetec Security Center SaaS, unify core physical security functions, such as access control, video surveillance, automatic license plate recognition (ALPR), intrusion detection, communications, and analytics.

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gtechna www.gtechna.com gtechna offers real-time e-ticketing enforcement software for police, parking, code, and transportation agencies, supporting governments, private operators, and universities in achieving mobility, safety, and security objectives. Servicing over 25 million tickets annually, gtechna improves compliance and operational efficiency.

With 20 years of experience, the company has partnered with leading agencies in Quebec, Washington D.C., Toronto, and more, expanding into international markets like Australia and Malaysia. Known for providing futureready solutions, gtechna is a trusted source for reliable enforcement technology and is a division of Harris Computer, continuously refining its products to meet customer needs.

HONK www.honkmobile.com Founded in 2013, HONK is North America’s leading provider of self-serve, unattended payments for parking and mobility. HONK provides a complete, turn-key parking management system that is trusted by millions of drivers and accepted at thousands of locations across the United States and Canada.

HotSpot Parking Inc. www.htsp.ca HotSpot is a comprehensive digital parking solution covering every parking management aspect. From digital permits and real-time parking availability to DMV-integrated citation management, HotSpot provides an end-to-end solution with a user-friendly interface.

Our digital-first, infrastructure-light approach minimizes capital costs and maximizes revenue by leveraging your existing setup, making it ideal for introducing and maintaining a paid parking program.

EXHIBITING COMPANIES J.J. MacKay Canada Ltd.

Parker Technology

www.mackaymeters.com

www.parkertechnology.com

J.J. MacKay Canada Limited (MacKay Meters) is a recognized world leader in the parking control business.

Incorporated in 1960, MacKay has gained global recognition by providing our customers with innovative products that are recognized as being on the leading edge of technology.

Parker Technology combines parking domain expertise, our flexible software platform and our professional customer service center, or your staff, to ensure customer problems are resolved efficiently, according to tailored facility business rules. We help our clients create a better customer experience, while collecting more revenue.

The MacKay product line includes: • The MacKay TANGO™ pay stations.

• The mkBeacon™ wireless single space / dual space mechanisms and the MacKay Guardian™ X-series meters.

• The new mkORA pay-by-plate meter.

• parking meter housings, locks and decorative poles.

• Sentinel™ Meter Management System • MacKay GO™ communications app and Nova Mobile Pay.

Municipal Parking Services, Inc. municipalparkingservices.com Municipal Parking Services, Inc. (MPS) has emerged as a pioneering force in the smart parking industry. MPS is committed to transforming urban landscapes through cutting-edge, Internet-connected parking solutions and cloud-enabled, SAAS-based parking compliance services and solutions. Leveraging AI technology and MPS’s patented technology platform, MPS is redefining urban parking and parking enforcement while enhancing public safety.

Offstreet Technology http://www.joinoffstreet.com/ The only solution of its kind, Offstreet is designed to simplify the issuance and management of department permits at Higher Education institutions. Featuring a guest checkout flow, numerous guest communication features, and unlimited permit configuration options.

Coupled with a customer-centric product philosophy and reliable support team, Offstreet is the preferred solution for department and special event parking permits.

ParkMobile, LLC parkmobile.io ParkMobile is a leading mobile and web app that provides convenient parking payment solutions across North America. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, ParkMobile allows users to pay for both on-street and off-street parking through their smartphone app, web browser, or by calling a phone number. The platform also offers additional features, such as reserving parking spots for events, making it a versatile tool for everyday parking needs.

PayByPhone www.paybyphone.com PayByPhone’s aim is simple: simplify your journey so you can focus on what matters most. PayByPhone, a global leader for mobile payments, is a part of the Corpay portfolio of brands. PayByPhone is available in over 1,200 cities across North America and Europe, including universities and parking operators. More than 70 million users choose us to simplify their journey.

Performance Products International www.ppinternational.ca Performance Products International (PPI). PPI is a division of Sockeye Modular.

PPI (Performance Products International) offers our clients exceptional service, innovative technologies, and solutions for growth. We serve partners in the coatings industry that strive to be better and offer their clients premium products. PPI offers experts in every field that want to share their knowledge to improve efficiencies, solve problems and advance our respective industries.

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EXHIBITING COMPANIES Precise ParkLink

Scheidt & Bachmann Canada Inc.

www.preciseparklink.com

www.scheidt-bachmann.com

For over 35 years, Precise ParkLink has been Canada’s trusted parking and mobility industry leader, deploying best-in-class parking management and technology solutions to the Canadian marketplace.

Scheidt & Bachmann Canada manufactures state-of-theart parking systems incorporating advanced technologies to enhance the efficiency, convenience, and security of parking management. Modern Technology such as license plate recognition, real time data analytics, integration capabilities, with a user-friendly interface provide the Canadian market with a future-proofing option. Come visit us today at booth #60 for more information!

Precise ParkLink is committed to continuing to shift its approach to evolve with society's ever-changing needs, with solutions that guarantee seamless customer journeys.

Our goal is simple—providing you with the foundation to do more, achieve more, and be more.

RideShark Corporation www.rideshark.com RideShark is an international provider of mobility management solutions that optimize transportation efficiency and sustainability. The RideShark platform enables full management of commuter programs, offering advanced tools for real-time parking space mapping, multimodal trip planning, carpooling, GHG emissions reporting, incentives, rewards, and parking management. By supporting sustainable travel options, RideShark helps organizations reduce Scope 3 emissions, lower traffic demand, and improve air quality while boosting stakeholder engagement. We provide hospitals, universities, companies and municipalities with the technology to audit carpool parking in real-time through customized API integrations, ensuring smarter parking resource utilization and demand reduction.

RJC Engineers www.rjc.ca RJC Engineers (RJC) is a national, employee-owned engineering firm that celebrates creative thinking, prompt service, and technical excellence in building structure and enclosure engineering. Bringing the best of RJC to every project for over seven decades, the firm integrates multi-faceted ingenuity and practicality to create success for its clients and their projects. RJC is among a small number of firms in North America that truly specializes in the design of parking structures. We design durable, cost-effective, low-maintenance parking structures that optimize sites for vehicle circulation and pedestrian movement. Our firm offers clients an allencompassing engineering solution approach, bringing forth exceptional results.

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SenSen.ai sensen.ai An innovator in smart urban management solutions, SenSen leads the way in AI technology with the pioneering Live Awareness AI Platform. This revolutionary system analyses data from cameras and sensors in realworld spaces, seamlessly integrating it with contextually significant digital enterprise data for a safer and more efficient global landscape.

SenSen's solutions are alleviating traffic congestion, enhancing road and personal safety, and elevating urban life in prominent cities like Chicago, Las Vegas, Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa.

Additionally, the company's AI-driven technology is generating substantial annual savings for major retailers by enhancing security and surveillance aspects of their operations.

Southland Printing Company, Inc. www.southlandprinting.com For over 60 years, Southland Printing has been pioneering solutions for the parking control industry.

Throughout the years, we have been servicing customers around the world in over 40 different countries and across all industries, creating quality products from magnetic stripe, barcodes, hang tags, decals, airline boarding passes, baggage tags, RFID enabled products, literally every ticket imaginable. Each component undergoes rigorous testing in our R&D lab before we release products to the market. Our premium raw materials and devotion to quality control ensure an exceptional finished product that we are proud to deliver.

US Made and Sold Worldwide!

EXHIBITING COMPANIES SP Plus Corporation Canada

Tannery Creek Systems Inc.

www.spplus.com

www.tannerycreeksystems.com

SP+, a Metropolis company, is a leading parking and mobility solutions provider that leverages cutting-edge technology to deliver seamless and efficient services.

Focusing on innovation, we offer comprehensive solutions, including cutting-edge AI-enabled computer vision systems, real-time analytics, and integrated mobility services, ensuring a remarkable experience at all our facilities.

Available in fixed camera for Parkades and mobile LPR for street, autoChalk offers Digital Chalking, Pay-ByPlate, Pay-by-Space, Plates as Permits and Scofflaw.

Enhanced with autoChalk's sophisticated machine vision, it recognizes vehicles with snow covered, missing or deliberately distorted plates. Tannery's autoChalk features offer triple productivity, superb ease of use, tough and durable, powerful back office, comprehensive customer support and award winning technology!

Our industry-leading technology streamlines urban transportation, making city life more manageable and accessible.

SWTCH Energy swtchenergy.com SWTCH is pioneering EV charging solutions for multifamily and commercial properties across North America. We help building owners and operators deploy EV charging that optimizes energy usage and revenue at scale using existing grid infrastructure.

T2 Systems, a Verra Mobility Company www.t2systems.com T2 Systems is the largest parking technology provider in the country, serving the parking industry for more than 30 years. Its open technology and processes are used to manage more than 200 million parking transactions for over 2 billion dollars annually across all 50 states and nine provinces in Canada. T2 offers comprehensive enterprise parking solutions with state-of-the-art Permit & Enforcement software and hardware, Luke® Multi-Space Pay Stations, Parking Access & Revenue Control System (PARCS), and powerful mobile payment applications such as T2 MobilePay, T2 Tempo™ time-based parking, and Scan & Pay for citation payments. T2 also has a team dedicated to full-service citation processing and collections that creates operational efficiency and maximizes revenue. T2 customers use our products and services to solve challenges in their parking operation, provide a superior customer experience to their parkers, and maximize efficiency in their departments. Visit T2Systems.com for more information.

VenTek International www.ventek-intl.com VenTek International the a premier U.S. manufacturer of automated payment systems for unattended fee collection applications. We offer solutions for parking, transit, and reservations applications with electronic payment processing that meets PCI-DSS and PA-DSS standards and is EMV compliant. With a nearly 60 year legacy of technological innovation, reliable service, and engineering excellence, VenTek’s mission is to provide complete customer satisfaction with state-of-the-art product offerings and an exceptional team to support them.

ZipBy USA LLC https://zipby.app/ ZipBy is a fully integrated Parking Access Revenue Control Solution for on-street and off-street parking.

Whether used as a standalone system or alongside existing PARCS, ZipBy simplifies operations by eliminating the need for physical access cards and transponders. Our PCI-compliant app handles all transactions, reducing credit card device upgrade costs.

With ZipBy, you can extend the life of your hardware, lower maintenance expenses, and effortlessly manage permits, validations, and reservations—all from a single, user-friendly platform. n

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Electrifying Toronto: The Crucial Path to Sustainable Transportation IN CONVERSATION WITH TAF'S IAN KLESMER As cities around the world shift towards sustainable transportation, the collaborative efforts of both public and private sectors in expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure are becoming increasingly vital. In Toronto, where transportation accounts for about 32.5%(Opens in a new window) of all greenhouse gas emissions, the push for electric vehicles is a crucial element of the city’s strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2040.

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For gas-powered vehicles, fueling stations have not been a responsibility of governments and have been left to the private sector. Do you see a time when cities and government will completely hand over charging station responsibilities to the private sector?

IK: Supportive policy frameworks will likely be necessary for a few more years.

As time progresses, the cost of electric vehicles is expected to become more competitive with gasoline-powered cars. They’re already cost-effective over their lifecycle (Opens in a new window), but there is still an upfront premium that should decrease over time, reducing the need for public support as the industry matures. Currently, we're facing a chicken-and-egg problem where people hesitate to buy EVs due to insufficient charging infrastructure, and the private sector is reluctant to invest because there aren't enough EVs on the road. All levels of government can play a crucial role in breaking out of this dilemma by supporting early investments in EV charging. Over time, it's expected that business models will evolve, the case for private investment will get stronger, and the private sector will take a more active and eventually exclusive role in rolling out EV charging infrastructure.

Toronto has set a goal of reducing greenhouse gases by 65% by 2030. How can a shift to EVs help reduce the city’s carbon footprint and what steps do we need to get there?

To help answer these questions, we sat down with Ian Klesmer, Director of Strategy and Grants with The Atmospheric Fund to learn more about the steps Toronto must take to support the growth of EVs.

Let’s talk a bit about the role the public sector should play when it comes to EV charging. Why should cities be involved in this space in the first place?

Ian Klesmer: All levels of government have climate commitments and carbon reduction goals, and electric vehicles are a crucial part of achieving these goals. But it’s still a nascent sector that needs public support, especially until industry becomes more mainstream and reaches a tipping point. The public sector can help accelerate and scale EVs through incentive programs, smart policy frameworks and direct investments.

At the local level, hundreds of cities across Canada have declared climate emergencies and are actively seeking new and effective ways to reduce their carbon footprints. In urban environments, transportation is a major source of emissions, often second only to buildings. A wide range of actions are needed to reduce emissions from the transportation sector, including expanding cycling and transit options and densifying cities. However, from strictly a carbon perspective, the most impactful action many cities can take is to help electrify the way people and goods move around.

In terms of EV charging, municipal authorities often have both the jurisdiction and the local community connections that make them well-positioned to accelerate the rollout of EV charging infrastructure.

You have the ear of the business community here. What do you want to convey to these leaders about their role in advancing EV charging infrastructure?

IK: The private sector has a critical role to play in the expansion of EV charging infrastructure, offering innovation, investment, and operational expertise.

Businesses can drive advancements in charging technology, making it faster, more efficient, and more cost-effective. This includes developing faster and more convenient charging solutions and developing vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies which can stabilize the intermittency of renewable energy and allow more of it to be integrated onto the electricity grid, mitigating the environmental impact of increased electricity demand. Companies can also form partnerships with municipalities to develop and expand charging networks. By participating in public-private partnerships, businesses can leverage public incentives while contributing private capital and expertise, creating a win-win scenario that accelerates infrastructure rollout.

INITIATIVE SUPERCHARGE INITIATIVE: ACCELERATING EV ADOPTION ACROSS THE GTHA The Board and The Atmospheric Fund (TAF) are leading a two-year advocacy campaign to accelerate electric vehicle (EV) adoption in Toronto, Hamilton and Vaughan.

Back to the public sector’s role in this space. Which cities are leading on EV charging, in terms of what they’re doing right, but also what we should avoid doing?

IK: Montreal and Vancouver serve as excellent examples of how cities can effectively support the expansion of EV infrastructure. Both cities have made significant investments in charging networks, which not only improve

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accessibility but also signal to consumers and the private sector that electric vehicles are viable. Montreal's approach of continually building out a robust charging network, and Vancouver's innovative programs for multifamily dwellings, provide strong models.

However, one cautionary note is the risk of over-reliance on public funds. Cities should strive to create a balanced ecosystem where private enterprises are incentivized to contribute, ensuring sustainability and scalability of charging infrastructure without overly burdening municipal budgets.

It’s always good to know what our peer cities in Canada are doing. What specific steps should Toronto take to improve its standing and catch up to our fellow Canadian cities?

IK: Toronto is already doing some great things. It recently introduced a requirement that all new residential parking spaces include an energized outlet capable of providing Level 2 charging. This will support the city’s transition to electric mobility while saving building owners from having to do costly retrofits down the road.

autoChalk

Mobile Vehicle Mounted LPR Flexible Solutions  Pay-By-Space

 Permits

Access Control

 Pay-By-Plate

 Scofflaw

Triple Productivity in All Weather Tough and Reliable Superb Ease of Use Powerful Back Office Exceptional Customer Support Award Winning Technology!

Tannery Creek Systems Inc sales@autoChalk.com www.autochalk.com 1.905.738.1406

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CREDIT: Printed with permission from the Toronto Region Board of Trade. For more information visit https://bot.com/News/ Electrifying-Toronto-The-Crucial-Path-to-Sustainable-Transportation

®

Fixed Stationary LPR

Digital Chalking

Toronto can also use its convening powers to accelerate EV charging expansion. For example, the city recently passed a requirement and strategy for the ride-hailing sector to be net zero by the end of 2030. As part of this strategy, the city will be developing a plan specifically to meet the sector’s EV charging needs; this is so critical because the high-milage ride-hailing drivers can provide the stable and predictable charging demand needed to attract private investment for a wider rollout. Developing an effective plan will require engaging a range of stakeholders beyond the City, including ride hailing companies, charging operators, landowners, and investors. These players can collectively define their respective needs and contributions to the charging rollout and, together, develop a plan that’s greater than the sum of its parts. The city can play a key role in facilitating this discussion and co-creating a solution that works for everyone. n

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2025 Insights:

Strategic Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Planning for Canadian Parking Facilities

BY ADAMO DONATUCCI

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular in Canada as the country aims to achieve its 2050 zero-emissions goal, a target set to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Developing a robust EV charging infrastructure is no longer a future idea; it's here. This makes now the ideal time for parking facility operators to prepare their facilities for this transition.

Understanding the EV Landscape in Canada The electric vehicle market in Canada is experiencing rapid growth, driven by a combination of government incentives, charging preferences, and advancements in EV technology. Consumers today expect parking facilities to offer reliable and convenient charging options. With the growth of EVs, parking operators must stay ahead of these expectations by providing adequate charging infrastructure. This is not just about meeting current demand but also preparing for the future as more Canadians switch to electric vehicles. Understanding the regulatory environment is crucial, as compliance with local laws and standards will be necessary to successfully deploy EV infrastructure.

Assessing Current Infrastructure and Future Needs Before installing EV infrastructure, parking facility operators need to conduct a comprehensive assessment of their existing facilities. This includes evaluating the current electrical capacity, layout, and potential areas where electric vehicle charging stations can be installed. It’s essential to consider both current usage patterns and potential future needs to ensure that the infrastructure will be adequate as the number of EVs grows.

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Choosing the Right EV Charging Technology for Your Operation Selecting the appropriate type of EV charging station is a critical decision for parking facility operators. There are several types of chargers, including Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast chargers, each suited for different scenarios. Choosing technology that integrates seamlessly with existing parking management systems is important to provide a smooth and efficient user experience. Scalability is another key consideration; operators should opt for solutions that can easily be expanded as demand grows. This ensures long-term viability and allows for future upgrades to more advanced technologies as they become available.

Financial Planning and Funding Opportunities Installing EV infrastructure involves a significant investment, and understanding associated costs is vital. These costs include purchasing chargers, electrical upgrades, installation, and ongoing maintenance. However, there are also potential revenue opportunities, such as charging fees or subscription services.

Numerous government grants and incentives are available to support the deployment of EV infrastructure. Both federal and provincial governments in Canada offer funding opportunities that parking operators can leverage to reduce initial costs.

Enhancing User Experience and Engagement To attract and retain EV drivers, parking facilities must offer more than just charging stations; they need to provide a user-friendly experience. This includes easy-to-use interfaces, clear signage, and accessible payment systems that support multiple payment methods. Engaging users through mobile apps can enhance the overall experience, offering features like parking payment, reservations, permit management, and loyalty programs.

Facilities can build trust and reliability by providing excellent customer service and 24/7 support.

Remote monitoring and maintenance capabilities ensure that charging stations are always operational, reduce downtime, and enhance user satisfaction.

Future-Proofing for Technology Advancements The EV market is rapidly evolving, and parking facilities must be prepared to adapt to new technologies and trends. This includes being informed about emerging technologies such as wireless charging and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities, which could become more prevalent in the near future.

Investing in electric vehicle infrastructure is no longer optional for Canadian parking facilities; it is essential for meeting the needs of a growing number of EV drivers and supporting the country’s transition to a greener future. n

References

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Government du Canada. (2024b, July 3). Electric vehicle charging infrastructure for Canada. Natural Resources Canada. https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/transportation-alternative-fuels/resource-library/ electric-vehicle-charging-infrastructure-for-canada/25756 Canada Electric Vehicle Market 2024-2030: August 2024 updated. Mobility Foresights. (2024, May 22). https://mobilityforesights.com/product/canada-electric-vehicle-market/ Canada Electric Vehicle Market Size, share & forecast 2019-2025. Orion Market Research. (n.d.). https://www.omrglobal.com/industry-reports/canada-electric-vehicle-market

Adamo Donatucci, Business Development & Strategy Officer, Precise ParkLink Connect with Adamo on LinkedIn

SPECIAL CONFERENCE ISSUE | PARKER 3RD QUARTER 2024 41

Guidance in Reach

BY CHRIS SCHEPPMANN

THE PROLIFERATION OF PARKING GUIDANCE TECHNOLOGY HAS ARGUABLY BEEN THE MOST IMPORTANT PARKING TECHNOLOGY TREND OVER THE PAST TEN YEARS. THE PAST DECADE HAS SEEN GUIDANCE EVOLVE FROM A VALUABLE TOOL THAT MANY OWNERS CONSIDERED A LUXURY TO AN ESSENTIAL ELEMENT OF PARKING MANAGEMENT. AND WITH MATURATION OF THE SMART CITY MOVEMENT AND THE INTRODUCTION OF SMART CITY PLATFORMS LIKE THE PARK DETROIT APP, PARKING GUIDANCE HAS EMERGED AS THE INDISPENSABLE PARKING AND MOBILITY TECHNOLOGY.

Until recently, parking owners were faced with a significant cost/benefit tradeoff when selecting parking guidance technology.

There were only two options: expensive single space sensor systems or inexpensive in-motion loop systems. For years, the single space sensor was the gold standard. They are very accurate, but also very expensive. A complete over-the-space sensor system could cost anywhere from $500 to $750 per space, given infrastructure limitations and signage requirements. So, for a garage with just five hundred parking spaces, the cost of installing a reliable guidance system would be around $250,000 and could run as high as $375,000. And that’s just the initial installation cost. There may also be maintenance and repair costs to factor in.

Traditional in-motion counting solutions, on the other hand, such as loops or ultrasonic sensor technologies are inexpensive.

But they are also very inaccurate. These systems count vehicles as they enter and leave a parkade, using vehicle sensing technologies. While these systems are much less expensive than single space sensors, they are also considerably less accurate. They also typically operate as stand-alone systems and can’t be integrated with other platforms or software.

However, in recent years, the introduction of vision-based Intelligent Camera technology has filled the gap between single-space and traditional sensor systems for in-motion car counting. Intelligent camera technology leverages the latest advancements in vision and machine learning-based software technology to track, identify, and count cars as they enter and exit a parkade

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Scalability is an important additional benefit provided or parking lot. Cameras are located at parkade entrances and exits, as well as in strategic locations within the parkade. Because far fewer cameras are required than in a single space environment, they can be installed at a fraction of the cost. But they are extremely accurate. In fact, Intelligent Camera systems can achieve greater than 99% accuracy.

by Intelligent Camera systems.

The key to the accuracy of an Intelligent Camera system is the software that runs it. The AI-powered platforms can differentiate between specific objects, such as cars, people, motorcycles, and scooters, and precisely count only those vehicles that will be parked. Typically, Intelligent Cameras are located at the main entries, entrances, and exits of individual parking floors, and even specific zones to monitor incoming and outgoing traffic. The cameras count how many cars enter and exit the structure, as well as each individual floor. The cameras also have the ability to identify license plates for parker inventory, permit and visitor visibility and enforcement. That data is compiled and analyzed in real time to determine how many spaces are available and who is in the parking facility as a whole, as well as on each floor. The data is then transmitted to strategically located LED signs located at the facility’s entrance and at the entrance of each floor. When people drive into the garage or lot, the entry sign tells them how many parking spaces are available at that moment throughout the facility. As they drive through the garage, signs at each level tell them how many spaces are available on that particular level, at that moment.

Vision-Based vs. Alternative Sensor Technology While the cost of installing vision-based technology is comparable to the price of loops, ultrasonic, or other non-vision-based sensor technologies, there are many differences between the vision-based and not. The differences begin at the operational level. For instance, since Intelligent Camera solutions are more accurate than non-vision-based technologies, there’s no need for lane delineation. Not only can Intelligent Cameras monitor all lanes in multilane drive aisles, but when cars straddle two lanes (which is common when the car is the only one entering or exiting a parkade), the cameras can still provide an accurate count. Alternate technologies typically can’t.

Also, Intelligent Camera systems require less infrastructure. There are several reasons for this.

First, a single camera can view and count multiple lanes of traffic. Also, because the heart of an Intelligent Camera system is its operating platform, existing cameras can typically be used to also provide guidance. So, if a parkade already has an LPR system in place at entrances and exits or security cameras located throughout, those cameras can also be connected to the guidance platform to provide parking guidance.

Intelligent Cameras are also multifunctional. In addition to counting cars as they enter and exit, the cameras also record entry and egress. So, if there’s a question of when a vehicle entered or exited, for instance, there’s a video record of that transaction. Likewise, the cameras can be set up to provide security and can record accidents and other events that may occur.

Scalability is an important additional benefit provided by Intelligent Camera systems. The platforms and the cameras they rely on can manage multiple functions, including occupancy management, guidance, LPR, and security surveillance. However, parking owners and operators don’t need to set up all the functions when the system is installed. New functionality can easily be added when a need arises. And as future capabilities are introduced to the software, they can be added to the system without having to add new hardware.

SPECIAL CONFERENCE ISSUE | PARKER 3RD QUARTER 2024 43

Ask the experts who work with parking technology every day.

Finally, Intelligent Cameras leverage machine learning software to accurately recognize different types of vehicles and categorize traffic versus objects that are not parkers (i.e. people, bicycles, trash bins, etc.). This provides a more accurate vehicle count by ensuring that you are not counting non-parkers.

Ask the Right Questions When selecting parking guidance technology, it’s important to ask the right questions to make sure, not only that the technology will produce the necessary results, but that those results will meet the needs of your parkade or parking lots.

First, what is the company’s core technology backbone to counting? There are significant differences between Intelligent Camera, loop, and single space sensor systems. It’s important to know the difference and it’s important for the providers you are considering to be able to explain to you not just what kind of technology they offer, but why that technology is singularly capable of meeting your needs.

If you choose an Intelligent Camera—or Vision—technology, ask how long the provider has been specializing in Vision technology? New companies are constantly appearing and it’s important that your technology partner has extensive experience with parking guidance.

How many locations has the system been deployed to, and how many sites have achieved project completion? You don’t want your parking lot or parkade to be a test site. Make sure your technology partner has experience providing the services you are looking for.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Chris Scheppmann is managing member of EnSight Technologies.

He can be reached at chris@ensight-technologies.com.

Has the technology been signed off on projects with parking consultants verifying accuracy results? Don’t take technology companies at their word when they say they can handle your project. Ask the experts who work with parking technology every day. Our industry is blessed to have a multitude of parking consulting firms with experience connecting their clients with the right technology partners. Ask them what they think.

Parking guidance is the essential technology in today’s parking and mobility world. By asking these simple questions you can be assured to make the right choice when choosing a parking guidance product. n

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The Canadian Parking Association’s Management Training and Certification.

The Parking Management Certification program (PMC) addresses the training needs of management teams and front-line supervisors who oversee parking operations.

This program sets performance and service standards at the point where the parking operation, technology, mobility, and the customer meet. The PMC credential is the standard by which performance can be measured.

Standards

The Examination

Recognized as the benchmark for supervisory and management level employees in the Canadian parking industry, the program offers candidates a comprehensive study program that includes relevant and essential aspects of a standard parking operation.

The computerized PMC examination is composed of 150 four-option multiple-choice questions and is administered during a 3-hour testing session held in close proximity to the candidate’s home or workplace.

The course is designed for quality and fairness in assessing the skill set for the industry and may be used by employers to evaluate candidates during the hiring processes.

Former CCPFM Graduates

Development Of The Certification Program The study materials and examination outline contain information fundamental to the defined roles and responsibilities of parking managers. Content has been compiled from a cross-section of parking professionals from Canada and has been updated to include current information relative to today’s parking industry.

Holders of current CCPFM designation will be offered a discounted fee to study the revised materials and retake the examination. If certification has lapsed, full fees will apply.

Parking Industry Credential The Canadian Parking Association, as the national authority for the industry in Canada, has the authority to grant or rescind the use of the professional designation of Parking Management Certification “PMC” to candidates who successfully complete the program.

Course Content OPERATIONS: Types, Design, Regulations, Loss Prevention, Equipment/Systems/Technology, Safety REVENUE CONTROL: Accounting, Auditing MOBILITY MANAGEMENT (TDM) CUSTOMER SERVICE MARKETING/ADMINISTRATION MAINTENANCE HUMAN RESOURCES

Training Course Registration & Information canadianparking.ca/pmc/