June 2025 | Real Estate, Planning, Design, & Construction
Real Estate, Planning, Design, & Construction
How the built environment is shaping the future of parking and mobility.
Reviving P3s
Navigating the New Era of PublicPrivate Partnerships in Parking and Mobility By
Lauren Nelson, PTMP
Finding Your WAY
The Importance of Wayfinding in a Modern Parking Environment by Thomas Szubka, PTMP and Bobby Mordenti, M.U.D.
Artistry and Functionality
How Architectural Glass Façades Are Transforming Parking Design By Said Elieh and Peter Stattler
When Data Meets Design By
Raksha Vashishta
23 projects recognized for creativity and innovation in the 2025 IPMI Awards of Excellence program. By Dorothy Verdon, CPSM
Richard Easley,
Beatrice Hiner
EVERY PARKING, TRANSPORTATION, AND MOBILITY PROJECT STARTS WITH A NEED. That need becomes the seed from which a project, an asset, or a facility grows. But what happens between discovering the need and successfully filling it?
Planning, design, and construction (PDC), of course.
Coming from a two-decade-long run in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry, I must admit I brought a bias with me to IPMI over three years ago: I happen to think that the PDC professionals of the parking and mobility industry are wicked cool. They are problem solvers, innovators, and change-makers.
This issue celebrates the accomplishments of PDC professionals and how their successes are elevating the game. We explore how P3s transform our perspective on parking partnerships, how wayfinding influences customer experience, how facades can either enhance or undermine a parking design, and the many ways that today’s data-driven approach to parking is shaping design decisions.
All that, and this bag of chips: we bring you the Awards of Excellence winners that represent the pinnacle of planning, design, construction, technology, and innovation.
Again, I know I’m biased, but I’m telling you—it’s wicked cool
Sit back, relax, and flip through as you discover the beautiful and impactful projects that led the industry this year. And be sure to check out our featured columns this month—there’s so much for you to take away!
I hope to see many of you in Louisville this month. Come up and say hello! I’d love to meet you and hear your story, and I hope to understand how we can help you succeed.
As always, thank you for spending some time with us! You are the reason we do what we do, and I thank you for allowing us to be a part of your community.
Melissa Rysak, editor rysak@parking-mobility.org
PUBLISHER
Shawn Conrad, CAE s.conrad@parking-mobility.org
EDITOR
Melissa Rysak, CPSM rysak@parking-mobility.org
TECHNICAL EDITOR
Rachel Yoka, PTMP, LEED AP BD+C yoka@parking-mobility.org
ADVERTISING SALES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
Tina Altman taltman@parking-mobility.org
PUBLICATION DESIGN
BonoTom Studio info@bonotom.com
For subscription changes, contact Tina Altman, taltman@parking-mobility.org or 888.IPMI.NOW
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APlanning, Design, and Construction
The Inevitable Professional Cycle
By Richard Easley, PTMP
S I SIT HERE WRITING THIS COLUMN, looking out over the waves crashing onto the beach, I contemplate. As I prepare to retire from this noble profession, I realize many people have experienced these same contemplations before me, and that they will be experienced by everyone reading these words in the years to come as they eventually plan for their own retirement.
Like many of you reading this column, I have spent many years working on projects that improve upon the work of others before me.
Payments: We have taken the parking payment concept from coins for mechanical meters, to the utilization of credit cards, to the application of RFID payment, to the application of payment with cellphones over the internet. We have innovated, improved, and made parking payments much easier for many users.
Planning and Design: For parking operations, we have taken a “bare bones” parking facility and created real-time messaging for parking availability; we have instituted systems and processes that have made parking much easier for our customers with accessibility issues. We have even created parking ingress/egress designs that greatly minimize traffic congestion and improve air quality.
Construction: We have upgraded our processes to include adaptability for future applications of electric vehicle parking, and we have designed facility infrastructure support systems that can lend themselves to new applications and services that go beyond just space for parking vehicles.
Together, you and I have achieved amazing things in our careers. We’ve made things so much better than when we first started working in this parking profession!
My Contemplation: As I think back to when I first started in this profession, I remember some extraordinarily innovative people - absolute giants. I remember picking up and carrying the ball forward from where they left it when they retired and left the profession. Now that I am retiring, I finally see that my ‘great’ ideas are just a progression in a process that is larger than all of us. When I am no longer practicing my profession, a new wave of professionals will look at what you and I have accomplished, and they will pick up the ball and carry it farther than we could have ever imagined… just like we did. I’m proud of the work we have accomplished together in our profession, and I know when we leave, it will only get better. With that realization, I think I’ll have another ice-cold beverage and enjoy the view. We’ve earned it. ◆
RICHARD EASLEY, PTMP , is the President of E-Squared Engineering, a member of the IPMI Board of Directors, and Co-Chair of the IPMI Planning, Design, & Construction Committee. He can be reached at reasley@e-squared.org.
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Parking and Curb Management
The Role of Smart Technology
By Beatrice Hiner
AT A RECENT CITY COUNCIL MEETING in a beachside town of about 5,000 residents, a developer presented plans for a 25-unit condominium building featuring two- and three-bedroom units and attractive outdoor space. While the design was wellreceived, the lack of allocated parking quickly became the main point of contention. With an estimated need for 50 to 65 spaces, accounting for residents, guests, and overnight visitors, the absence of a clear parking plan raised concerns in a community already strained by beach traffic and limited curbside capacity.
This scenario is emblematic of cities’ broader challenge as they densify and evolve. Urban planners, developers, and policymakers are re-evaluating public space allocation, management, and enforcement, particularly parking and curb zones. Once peripheral concerns, these areas are now central to sustainable urban development. With the rise of smart technologies like License Plate Recognition (LPR) and AI-powered cameras, cities are gaining new tools to optimize space, reduce congestion, and support more livable communities.
The Intersection of Real Estate Planning and Parking
Historically, parking has been a fundamental component of real estate development. Adequate
parking often dictated project feasibility, influenced regulatory approval, and helped attract tenants. But in today’s urban context, the conventional “more is better” mentality is increasingly outdated.
Excess parking takes up valuable land, drives up costs, and can contribute to urban sprawl. Cities such as San Francisco, Minneapolis, and Portland have eliminated minimum parking requirements, encouraging smarter, more community-oriented land use. As a result, developers are now collaborating more closely with planners to strike a balance between accessibility, efficiency, and environmental goals.
The Rise of Curb Management
Once static spaces, curbs have evolved to serve multiple purposes, including delivery zones, rideshare pick-up points, bike lanes, and outdoor dining areas. In dense, mixed-use environments, poorly managed curbs can cause congestion, safety hazards, and reduced economic activity.
Recognizing this, cities and developers are embracing adaptive curb management strategies. Curb spaces are being designed to adapt throughout the day using zoning overlays, time-based access, and digital signage to meet various needs. The curb has become a programmable asset in urban planning.
Technology as a Planning Tool: LPR and AI Cameras
Smart technology is accelerating this transformation. LPR systems and AI-powered cameras are
The curb has become a programmable asset in urban planning.
revolutionizing how cities monitor and enforce curb and parking regulations.
LPR enables quick license plate scans, instantly matching vehicles with parking databases to automate enforcement. AI systems take it further—detecting violations, identifying vehicle types, and even forecasting demand through machine learning. These tools provide real-time data that developers and municipalities can use to design more responsive, efficient spaces.
For instance, a mixed-use project might use LPR to accommodate different parking needs throughout the day; office workers in the morning, diners in the evening, and overnight guests at night. AI can automate enforcement and adjust pricing dynamically, ensuring maximum efficiency and user convenience.
Benefits to Urban Design and Mobility
The integration of smart parking and curb technologies offers several advantages:
1. Optimized Space Use: Vehicle turnover and occupancy data help planners decide the precise amount of parking needed, freeing land for housing, green space, or retail.
2. Improved Mobility: Smart curb management reduces double-parking and ensures dedicated spaces for ride-shares and deliveries, smoothing traffic flow.
3. Data-Driven Decision Making: Real-time and historical data inform zoning, investment, and enforcement decisions.
4. Environmental Gains: Reducing excessive parking supports alternative transportation and aligns with climate goals.
5. Increased Revenue: Dynamic pricing and improved compliance can boost municipal revenue for reinvestment in public services.
A Collaborative Future
The most effective applications of these technologies occur when developers, city leaders, and tech providers collaborate from the outset. Whether it is embedding sensors into new garages or designing flexible curb layouts, early integration ensures that infrastructure is future-ready rather than retrofitted.
Cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., are already piloting AI-driven curb management with promising results, reducing congestion and improving service delivery. Forward-thinking developers also recognize the value of smart parking, helping boost property appeal, attract tenants, and meet ESG (environmental, social, and governance) commitments.
Conclusion
Today, real estate planning extends beyond buildings to the spaces between them. Parking and curb management, once afterthoughts, are now critical components of urban design and mobility. By leveraging tools like LPR and AI-powered cameras, cities and developers can transform these spaces into strategic assets that support growth, livability, and sustainability.
The future of our cities is not just constructed, it’s intelligently managed, one curb at a time. ◆
BEATRICE HINER is the Vice President of Sales for CivicSmart, Inc., and a member of the IPMI Technology Committee. She can be reached at bhiner@civicsmart.com
Be a Structure First Responder
If You See Something, Say Something!
By Melissa Yates, PTMP
IAM IN THE CAR WITH THE STEREO JAMMING CLASSIC R&B, and the sunlight filtering through the windshield warms my face. There’s nothing on my mind, and I’m enjoying watching the people on the sidewalk getting ready to step onto the walking mall, imagining where they’re from. I can almost smell the cup of coffee I’m going to order at my favorite coffee shop, and I’m on my way to meet some friends to try out the new Thai restaurant downtown.
Traffic is a little busy, but that comes with the territory this time of year. After all, we pride ourselves on being a foodie town with an awesome four-block walking mall filled with some of the best shops and restaurants in the state. I might even spot a wellknown celebrity; it’s been known to happen. Even so, my mind is always on parking, working through the variables tumbling around in my thoughts: Where’s the best spot to park, and why? And today is no different.
As a certified parking nerd, no matter what city I’m in, I evaluate parking garages - how well they’re cared for and how I feel when I’m in them. I want to say something when I see issues like water infiltration, rust stains, peeling paint, puddles, or debris. I usually end up sharing my concerns with the nearest colleague, pointing out how easy these problems are to prevent and how much money could be saved by catching maintenance issues early.
Maintaining parking garages can seem like a daunting task. Let’s face it, we’re parking people. Not all parking and mobility professionals have a concrete, steel, or construction background. A parking and mobility professional, by definition, is an expert in the planning, management, and operation of parking and transportation systems. Our role involves optimizing efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability in parking facilities and mobility solutions to improve urban flow and user experience. Throw technology into that mix, and we emerge as parking and mobility professionals, not necessarily construction and maintenance pros.
However, most of us have been responsible for parking garages at some point in our careers. They are our bread and butter and serve as gateways to our cities, event venues, and campuses. They contribute to economic vitality and should be maintained to a level of safety and aesthetics that feels welcoming to parkers while enduring the test of time. Parking professionals play a key role in this process, regardless of our construction background or leadership title. It’s our responsibility to ensure we and our teams have a basic understanding of what to look for, when to act, or at least when to speak up.
Minor problems can quickly escalate into costly repairs that could’ve been avoided through early detection, preventing operational downtime and liability risks. Empowering yourself as frontline staff to notice stained walls or ceilings, peeling paint, mold, pooling water, efflorescence (white residue), crumbling concrete, or rusting metal is an easy first step. I like to think that each of us, no matter our experience or role, can become “structure first responders” who notice when something doesn’t look right, then proactively report and track the issue through simple forms or even a mobile app. Finally, we can recommend remediation steps to our leadership teams. As a structure first responder, you’re uniquely positioned as the boots-on-theground caretaker of your organization’s assets.
Here’s a simple rule of thumb: there are two key enemies of parking garages, water and salt These silent but destructive elements corrode quietly, especially when combined. Most parking organizations have partnered with engineering firms to establish 5-to-10-year maintenance plans, a significant step toward prevention.
As I said earlier, we’re usually not engineers. We’re managers and frontline stewards of organized chaos, parking cars and rolling out mobility programs to reduce urban congestion. Some of us are deep in the day-to-day maintenance of parking garages. Remember: a maintenance plan is just that, a plan. Be aware of it as your guide, but don’t forget the skills that got you hired: your eyes and instincts. I always say, “If you don’t like it, I don’t like it.” The parking assets of your organization fall under your maintenance watch, and your documentation and reporting on any suspicious changes make a difference.
Hiring professional engineers to develop a maintenance plan provides the roadmap to awareness and prevention. As I’ve said many times in my parking life, a good 5-to-
10-year maintenance plan is worth the investment. When treated as a living document, it can not only prolong the life of a garage but also give frontline staff the confidence to identify and respond to issues. A solid, comprehensive plan always includes applications and techniques to keep water and salt away from the concrete and steel, saving money and preserving the investment.
Ultimately, the key to a successful plan lies in your role: responding from your gut.
Personally, I’ve always found it beneficial to include as many staff as possible in understanding the maintenance process, recognizing warning signs, and encouraging them to trust their instincts. Let’s follow the plan together. It really is that simple. If you see something, say something!
MELISSA YATES, PTMP , is the Partner Program Manager for ParkMobile, LLC, and a member of IPMI’s State & Regional Association Committee and Technology Committee. She can be reached at melissa.yates@parkmobile.io
Protecting Vehicles and Garages
How HD video of in and between parking spaces can prevent fraudulent claims and improve a guest’s experience
By Sarah Clevinger
FOR PARKING FACILITIES, security isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. A wellmonitored garage reduces crime, enhances customer trust, and minimizes liability risks. The Park Assist Solution, an Automated Parking Guidance System (APGS), with optional Park Surveillance technology, is an innovative, camera-based system that protects the garage, guests, and their property.
Enhanced Security and Liability Protection
A well-monitored garage reduces crime rates and discourages reckless behaviors Garages equipped with camera-based technology could benefit from reduced liability insurance costs since they can provide video evidence. A well-monitored garage reduces crime and discourages reckless behavior. According to U.S. Risk Insurance Group, proper surveillance and liability mitigation strategies are crucial for parking management.
“Our technology has assisted clients in saving hundreds of thousands of dollars by providing crisp video evidence of incidents in their parking facilities. Last month, one of my clients was able to quickly dismiss a fraudulent damage claim regarding a parked vehicle because they had a clear recording of what happened,” said Jeff Sparrow, Director of Sales, North America.
The APGS’s camera-based smart sensors are mounted on the ceiling above the driving lane. Each sensor has up to two HD cameras and monitors up to six spaces. The cameras record crisp HD video 24/7 and the APGS’s software stores it for up to 90 days.
Facility managers can provide law enforcement and insurance companies with evidence to expedite investigations and identify perpetrators. This means fewer fraudulent claims and reduced legal exposure.
Increased Customer Confidence
A parking facility that prioritizes security attracts more customers. Guests are more likely to choose garages that monitor parking spaces, knowing their vehicles are protected. This trust leads to increased usage and revenue for parking facilities, making an APGS an investment in both safety and profitability.
Security also plays a role in long-term customer retention. Guests who have experienced incidents in unmonitored garages are far less likely to return. If vehicles are regularly parking overnight (for example, in mixed-use settings), their car insurance rates may even be affected based on the security of the parking facility. In contrast, facilities with a camera-based APGS offer a level of protection that fosters loyalty.
Operational Efficiency and Data Insights
An APGS does more than monitor spaces—it also provides valuable data that can optimize facility management. By analyzing footage, garage trends, and usage reports, operators can identify high-risk areas, improve traffic flow, and make informed decisions on infrastructure and business improvements. This proactive approach allows garages to streamline operations.
The
Park Assist Advantage
Combining an APGS and Park Surveillance technology, parking operators gain more than just a parking guidance system— they gain a comprehensive solution for risk management, customer retention, and operational efficiency. ◆
SARAH CLEVINGER is the Director of Marketing for TKH Security LLC. She can be reached at s.clevinger@ tkhsecurity.com
Shared Parking
“Right-Sizing” Parking Infrastructure
By Lia Reyes
What is Shared Parking?
More and more cities around the United States and the world are removing their parking ordinances. Shared parking is a customized parking requirement solution designed for developments using a scientific approach to calculating the correct number of parking spaces recommended for each land use and complex. These custom parking totals replace the requirements of the local parking ordinances. The calculations consider:
● Parking users.
● Time of day or week.
● Type of land use.
● Mix of land use.
● Available modes of transport.
● Connectivity between points of destination.
● Local driving culture.
● …and more.
It maximizes the use of parking spaces, allowing multiple users, businesses, residents, and visitors with complementary schedules that share a single space. Shared parking helps maximize continuous utilization of spaces day and night, reducing excess parking spaces and the overall cost of overbuilding parking infrastructure.
Rethinking Parking Ordinances
City parking ordinances require specific numbers of parking spaces for different land use types. But they do not consider other developments within or around it, resulting in many spaces being underutilized during parts of the day or week. Additionally, some city ordinances require a minimum number of parking spaces with the option to add more under a special condition, without considering
how those added spaces may become cumbersome and stay empty during certain times of the day. Under complimentary parking demand patterns like office daytime parkers and evening restaurant goers, the total number of spaces can be decreased, minimizing unused and wasted parking spaces.
Successful implementation of shared parking requires coordination regarding legal agreements, signage, enforcement, and technology, such as parking apps. Parking ordinances are outdated, particularly when shared parking can provide better approaches to maximize parking efficiency, opening the door for policymakers to relax these mandates.
Shared parking helps maximize continuous utilization of spaces day and night, reducing excess parking spaces and the overall cost of overbuilding parking infrastructure.
Eliminating parking ordinances has numerous advantages. For starters, it releases land for housing, commercial spaces, or parks, addressing housing shortages and enhancing local vibrancy. Furthermore, removing parking requirements ultimately lowers development costs for housing and businesses. Eliminating parking minimum ordinances also encourages walkable, transit-oriented development and reduces car reliance.
Benefits of Shared Parking
The advantages of shared parking are significant. Shared parking can reduce the need for unnecessary parking spaces, making more land available for parks, housing, or businesses, maximizing parking turnover, while maintaining a smaller footprint. It lessens the time to “hunt for spaces” as the areas are smaller, providing a reduction of emissions, improvement to air quality, and a healthier urban environment. By combining the use of parking within the same complex, removing the individual parking (ordinance) requirement for each land use, each space will be efficiently utilized, even allowing additional (specific) land use to be developed without requiring it to build new parking spaces, thus benefiting economic growth by increasing revenue with higher density, converting resources to higher value uses, and lowering development costs. Shared parking can also encourage more walking, more rideshare use, Park-Once, and better planning in advance. This can activate the sidewalks or trails, making spaces and their pathways more vibrant and safer.
“Right-Size” the Parking Ordinances Nationwide with Shared Parking
Parking is an essential part of successful development. Whether land is scarce or not, designing and right-sizing parking has become increasingly important to accommodate only necessary parking, maximize land use, improve economic growth, expand green or community space, and encourage connectivity and park-once to improve community health. Parking consultants specializing in shared parking planning can assist cities, campuses, and developments. By tailoring projects to real demand, developers can bypass outdated ordinances, unlocking economic potential for additional housing, offices, retail, or green spaces, enhancing urban vibrancy and resilience. ◆
LIA REYES is the Managing Director and Sr. Principal Consultant for LVR International, and a member of the IPMI Sustainable Mobility Task Force. She can be reached at lia@lvrintl.com
Building a Shared Movement for Vibrant Communities
Reflections for the Parking & Mobility Industry
By Benito O. Pérez, AICP, CTP, PTMP
ON MARCH 26-27, 2025, IPMI partner Smart Growth America had the pleasure of hosting its 5th annual Equity Summit in Washington, DC. The Summit brought in over 200 attendees from across the United States who represent a spectrum of decision makers, community-based non-profits, and practitioners. Within the backdrop of current national conversations, the running thread from the convening was encapsulated by the keynote address from Jerusalem Demsas, where the premise was that the scarcity mindset blocks advancement, building communities where everyone can thrive, and the need to recalibrate our mindset toward an abundance mindset.
Other notable highlights from the event, which featured five mainstage panels, a dozen workshops, and four interactive community tours, touched upon the urgency to address critical community needs while at the same time educating and empowering the community to mobilize and sustain action. Speakers also flagged the need to rethink how we communicate and think about our norms and culture (even within our organizations and/or our communities) to avoid remaining stuck in the status quo. This calls for rethinking the norms within our communities’ land use planning, zoning, economic opportunity, and transportation infrastructure, and how we weave culture into the message and nudge our mindset to have our built environment serve all in the community, regardless of their circumstances. By bringing in the folks within your community, you can rethink the scarcity mindset and focus more on the root issues of scarcity to create community abundance.
How do these top lines from the Summit relate to those in the parking mobility industry? In the scarcity mindset, parking violations are penalized with a citation. Those violations signal the cowpaths or desired access points in parking/curb operations. That could be the matter of a parent working multiple jobs, stopping in a no-parking zone to run in and pick up their child. In the abundance mindset, we should be asking the question if the parking citations are a symptom of an operational or policy failure of the community’s needs and recalibrate accordingly to foster community activity.
A feature at the 2025 Summit was a paired Streetscape Accessibility walking tour and panel discussion. In the walking tour, attendees could navigate the streets of Washington, DC with Smart Growth America staff, who also have the lived experience of navigating the streets with a disability. The tour highlighted accessibility challenges many others would take for granted, such as non-functional elevators to the subway platform, broken walk signals not providing sound for low vision individuals, crosswalk barriers (such as snow piles or misaligned refuge islands), as well as signs, markings, and operations that may complicate navigation for persons with cognitive impairments. Transitioning into the panel discussion which featured Lisa Strader from Portland Bureau of Transportation ,
John Waterman of PEAC , Carol Tyson of Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund , and Punya Krishnappa of Uber, the conversation touched upon streetscape accessibility from the municipal, local versus national advocacy, and private sector role in advancing transportation accessibility. Many changes are happening in our streetscapes and transportation system, meeting the needs of increased use and demand. It’s important to be mindful that streetscape design decisions could be the difference between members of your community having safe and reliable access to employment and community services.
The byline to ensure accessibility is making sure community members with disabilities are invited to the table (creating allyship and belonging with their experience well before they are needed to provide input), meeting them where they are, and keeping the message simple and clear (leveraging community disability members to be ambassadors to communicate in their own words and relate with the community on common frustrations of the status quo).
Walking away from the Summit, attendees were abuzz on the scarcity versus abundance mindset. Attendees walked away with the continued need for allyship across their community, especially those historically marginalized. In creating allyship, those in positions of decision-making can
look to simplify and humanize the conversation/decisionmaking process to be relatable (via culture and evolving norms) to all members of the community.
Looking inwards within the parking and mobility community, ask yourself:
● What kind of policy and/or operational mindset governs your organization/work?
● Is it a scarcity mindset?
● Does it serve the best interests of the community/end users?
● What norms and expectations are holding you back from changing things up? How can they be shifted?
● How are you relating to and creating allyship with members and groups of your community?
● How are you messaging your policies and/or operations? Is it simple, clear, and relatable to your community/end users? Are there opportunities to bring in the community to be communication ambassadors? ◆
BENITO O. PÉREZ, AICP, CTP, PTMP, is the immediate past Policy Director for Transportation for America and a member of IPMI’s Allyship & Equity Committee and the Policy & Legislative Cohort. He can be reached at benomarperez@gmail.com
Attendees of the Streetscape Accessibility walking tour observing streetscape obstructions.
Accessibility Streetscape Panel from L-R (Benito Pérez— moderator, Lisa Strader—PBOT, John Waterman—PEAC, Punya Krishnappa—Uber, and Carol Tyson—DREDF)
Becoming a Business Influencer Understanding Perceived Value
By Lisa F. Copeland, PTMP, CUFM
WITH TECHNOLOGY’S FAR-REACHING CAPABILITIES, a profound amount of competition is vying for consumers’ attention. With the appropriate infusion of business strategy, consumer behavior and spending habits can result in a positive financial outcome for a business. The parking, transportation, and mobility industry is no exception. Understanding how perceived value shapes consumer decision-making can help companies enhance their strategies, leading to increased revenue and customer loyalty.
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, the perceived value of a product or service we want or need is not necessarily the real value. Therefore, as business influencers, we have tools to impact our customers’ spending decisions. Our effect on perceived value can profoundly impact customer loyalty and revenue. How do we become effective business influencers? What tools do we stock in our arsenal to improve the perceived value of our offerings? Customers rely on brand reputation, and customers also shape brand reputation. Businesses flood the market with communications to keep their brand at the forefront. Positive personal experiences and societal trends also evoke interest and perceived value. This business flow is a cyclical process that changes as time changes. Brand reputation helps customers differentiate offerings between businesses. A positive brand reputation becomes the foundation for seeking
information and establishing customer credibility. Word of mouth is also an impactful vessel for brand image. However, brand image can evoke a positive or a negative image. For example, parking facilities that prioritize safety through lighting and signage or technology, like automated payment systems, often command higher rates than those with less to offer.
While marketing strategies are the bedrock for a positive brand reputation, bold and impactful product advertising shapes customer attitudes and expectations while enhancing perceived value. Creating and promoting a unique selling proposition can create an air of exclusivity and bolster customer perception. The perceived exclusivity lays a foundation for more intentional pricing.
Personal experience shapes our perceptions of the value of an “investment”, whether in a product or a service. When the experience meets or exceeds expectations, our perceived value of that experience is higher than that of those where we find the experience flat or even below par. When the experience falls below our expectations, product and service reviews will address that imperfect and unappreciated balance between perception and reality.
An example may be the perception of great value when a shuttle service arrives and departs promptly. The shuttles have that new look and feel, and the operators greet passengers with smiles and nods. These factors all improve personal experience and significantly contribute to the perceived value of that experience.
Conversely, when your personal experiences during arrival and departure times negatively impact
your arrival at a meeting, work, or other time-sensitive appointment, you will perceive the value of this experience as less desirable and overrated, even when this may be a rare and one-time situation. Business owners work tirelessly to earn those highly valued personal experiences.
How do societal trends impact perceived value? Because societal trends are normally acceptable cultural idealizations that address topics we are improperly or inefficiently managing, society places a superior value on products and services introduced to elicit and correct mismanagement.
A prime example of such a concern is how society currently focuses on environmental improvements. When parking operators add EV charging stations to parking
Strategies enhancing perceived value will differ between industry verticals and private and public sector businesses. A mix-and-match factor must also be considered when implementing change to improve perceived value. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all strategy.
Take the parking sector, for example. Dynamic pricing is a typical strategy for optimizing pricing while maximizing occupancy. On-demand services and mobile apps are driving strategies imposed by the transportation and mobility sectors that enhance perceived value to consumers.
Leveraging business strategies to strengthen and improve perceived value will impact your operation’s financial position. Key focus areas include expanded brand reputation,
Carolina Parking & Mobility Association
The Carolina Way Resilient and Unwavering
By Clint Joy
DURING OUR 2024 CONFERENCE IN CHARLOTTE, NC, the western Carolinas were hit by Hurricane Helene, which was devastating for many. The Carolinas Parking & Mobility Association (CPMA) remained steadfast in its belief that we should continue planning our 2025 conference in Asheville, NC, one of the most scenic tourist destinations in the Carolinas and an area greatly impacted by the hurricane. Our decision to stay the course and host the conference in Asheville reflects our commitment to resilience and, more importantly, to giving back to the community.
We’re excited to announce that the 2025 Annual Conference & Trade Show will take place in Asheville, North Carolina, from September 23 to 26, 2025. This fall’s conference will feature more than 10 engaging educational sessions, networking opportunities, an expansive expo hall, a golf tournament, volunteer projects, great food, and lots of fun! Registration opens June 2, 2025.
CPMA is also proud to announce our next webinar series. While we’ve offered quarterly webinars for the past three years, we’re expanding opportunities for 2025/2026. In addition to educational webinars, we’ll host two series of roundtable discussions for universities and municipalities. These conversations will help members
navigate challenges specific to the Carolinas while sharing best practices and new ideas.
Join us to share ideas, grow your knowledge, and connect with a professional network that spans North and South Carolina. We’re always excited to welcome new members!
To learn more, visit carolinasparking.org ◆
CLINT JOY is the Chief Executive Officer of Carolina Time and Parking Group, President of CPMA, and a member of the IPMI State & Regional Association Committee. He can be reached at clint. joy@carolinatime.net.
CPMA 2024 Expo and Conference
CPMA 2024 Expo and Conference
EXPERTS ASK THE
Rising Expectations Around Tech, Smart Infrastructure, and Real-Time Data Integration
For June’s Planning, Design, & Construction (PDC) themed issue, we asked members of IPMI’s PDC Committee their thoughts on the following question:
“How
are planning, design, and construction professionals adapting practices to meet rising expectations around technology, smart infrastructure, and real-time data integration for parking and mobility?”
Angel Diaz Jr. Director of Operations Miami Parking Authority
Planning, design, and construction professionals are increasingly adapting their practices to meet rising expectations around technology, smart infrastructure, and the shift toward electric mobility. I feel this question can be answered in two parts. EV Infrastructure: There’s growing demand for “EV-ready” facilities, and this is reshaping how projects are planned from the ground up. The percentage of EV spaces compared to traditional gas-powered ones now directly influences the power load requirements and utility planning. Designers must allocate additional square footage for utility vaults and consider separate electrical service connections dedicated solely to EV charging, which is critical in mixed-use developments where power demand varies. Future-proofing is also critical: conduit runs must be planned so EV charging stations can be easily activated as demand grows. Additionally, the structural design must account for the increased weight of EVs, which may require reinforced floor plates. Smart Infrastructure & Real-Time Data Integration: We also see a push toward embedding smart infrastructure throughout parking facilities. This includes integrating conduit pathways to support a range of connected technologies—cameras, sensors, digital signage, and other real-time data systems. The success of these implementations depends on early collaboration with garage operators and technology vendors, who can offer valuable insight into optimal device placement and system requirements. By doing so, facilities become not just smarter, but also more efficient, responsive, and user-friendly.
Kevin White, AICP, CAPP Director of Planning Walker Consultants
Modern-day devices that power and monitor off-street and on-street parking and curb operations (think gated PARCS, pay stations, LPR, mobile applications, sensors, cameras, and the like) are constantly connected and collecting and aggregating vast data. Many of these tools are powered by AI. As planners, we need to be at the center of helping parking and mobility owners and operators create digital twins of their asset inventory, and then collect, aggregate, centralize, standardize, and evaluate data as part of a data-driven management approach that improves system efficiency and customer service.
John Hammerschlag President Hammerschlag & Co., Inc.
PDC professionals are taking advantage of smart technologies to enhance parking and mobility systems. Customer service can be improved by leveraging real-time data, smart counter systems, automated parking systems including license plate recognition and QR code applications, dynamic space allocation and pricing, online purchasing, AI-powered analytics, and predictive maintenance to optimize traffic flow and manage parking availability. By using different technologies, we can adapt and stay flexible to meet constantly changing needs in parking.
Lauren Nelson, PTMP
Parking Consultant Walker Consultants
As a planning professional, incorporating the changing technologies into recommendations is absolutely necessary. Guiding parking solutions to meet future demands using these technologies is key.
Jonathan Shisler Director of Design THA Consulting
Design professionals need understanding of the technologies that are on the horizon by researching and discussing with vendors about these innovations and referring this information to their clients. Some clients may not be willing to be the first to implement the latest and greatest, so it’s the design teams responsibility, making sure the infrastructure being installed is made adaptable to accommodate any future upgrades with minimal replacement or modification. This could mean designing for more flexible areas around equipment, larger utility rooms, and adding extra conduit or superstructure block outs to accommodate these new technologies at a later date.
John Quackenbush, PMP Head of Product Launch FLASH Parking
Speaking from the tech side of this construction group, we have to work closely with land developers and design professionals to incorporate our technologies into their site designs earlier in the planning process. We have seen an increased demand in the market for ‘hybrid’ functionality systems that can switch between physical gates to a gateless, free-flow solution, and vice versa. As the demand increases for these ‘hybrid’ systems and the accompanying AI-powered License Plate Recognition cameras, the technology and design groups work together to ensure that project sites have infrastructure in the right place to support these technologies.
Matthew Kennedy, PTMP Director of Parking
University of Pennsylvania Parking & Commuter Services
Through close attention to the latest research, case studies, and trends in construction and technological developments, along with collaboration with peers throughout the industry, subject matter experts in planning, design, and construction are creating adaptable modern parking facilities.
Reviving
Navigating the New Era of Public-Private Partnerships in Parking and Mobility
P3s
By Lauren Nelson, PTMP
PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS, otherwise known as P3s, are not necessarily new to the world of parking and mobility. In fact, previous unsuccessful P3 partnerships created quite a controversial perception of this business model for years. However, P3s have begun seeing a resurgence within the parking and mobility space over the last ten years. Successful partnerships have proved that this model can work if applied appropriately. The details of how these partnerships are structured, the benefits and risks associated with P3s, where and how P3s can be effective, and the impact on communities are still relatively foreign to many parking and mobility professionals. So, what exactly do we need to know?
What is a P3?
There are various descriptions of what a P3 is and how it works. A broad definition of a P3, according to the United States Department of Transportation, is that “public-private partnerships (P3s) are contractual agreements between a public agency and a private entity that allow for greater private participation in the delivery of projects. In transportation projects, this participation typically involves the private sector taking on additional project risks such as design, construction, finance, long-term operation, and (traffic) revenue.”
This definition applies not only to transportation but also to the parking and mobility industry. It also highlights many of the aspects included in a partnership, which will be discussed later.
Why is there a need for P3s?
In its 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) gave a grade of “C” to the overall infrastructure of the United States. Roads, transit, and aviation all scored a D or D+. While this is an overall improvement over previous years’ report cards, more funding and investment are needed to meet the increasing needs across the United States. The ASCE estimates a $3.6 trillion investment gap over the next
Successful partnerships have proved that this model can work if applied appropriately.
10 years, with roads and transit accounting for $832 billion of that gap. While Congress has passed legislation to provide $580 billion in infrastructure improvements, $455 billion of which will be allocated to surface transportation, a funding delta still exists. The report states, “Federal, state, and local governments should expand the use of public–private partnerships for appropriate projects and find opportunities to leverage additional financing tools.” The bottom line: increased funding and publicprivate partnerships are necessary to meet future needs.
What are the Benefits and Risks of P3s?
As a benefit to the public sector, not only can a P3 increase funding for public infrastructure projects, but private sector companies can usually access this equity more quickly than the public authority. Private sector companies can provide specific expertise on projects that the government entity may not. Construction and engineering firms can provide innovation with the design and build, while private operators can more efficiently manage and operate the asset. Another benefit to the public entity is the transfer of risk from the public to the private sector. The risk associated with the
Infrastructure improvements and rehabilitation of aging assets are essential to building our future and require participation and cooperation from both private and public sectors to get the job done.
construction, maintenance, and operation of the project is shifted to the private partner, lessening the risk to taxpayers. The private partners are incentivized to deliver the project on time and budget since they assume the risk.
So why would a private sector company want to enter a P3 with a government agency if they assume most of the risk? Revenue. Revenue is the primary driver for private companies entering into P3 projects. Due to the long-term nature of most P3s, the private companies can generally expect long-term and predictable income associated with the project, especially if the operational and maintenance aspects of a P3 are a part of the agreement. Engaging in P3s can also expand a private company’s market presence and allow for more collaboration and exposure, providing potential for future projects.
With reward comes risk for a project’s public and private parties. For the public sector, there is the risk that regulation and policy changes could impact the partnership. Public opposition and misunderstanding can also impact the partnership, especially if the public perception is negative. Additionally, poorly negotiated contracts can lead to financial, operational, and longterm consequences, sometimes severe.
So, how can these risks be mitigated? First and foremost, a well-written contract outlining the responsibilities of each party and ensuring mutually beneficial terms is key. This can lead to lengthy and time-consuming negotiations, but it is crucial to a successful partnership. Engaging the public and providing transparency can help alleviate stakeholder
concerns and opposition. Involving consultants who can assist in navigating the financial and operational complexities of these agreements can also help mitigate unintended risk and consequences.
How do P3’s Work?
P3s take many forms:
● Long-Term Lease and Concession Agreements (sometimes called land leases).
● Design-Build-Finance-Operate -Maintain (DBFOM).
● Build-Operate-Transfer (BOP).
● Classic management contracts.
Design (D) and Build (B) are the core aspects of any P3, but utilizing the DB model alone may not bridge the funding gap. This is where the Finance (F) portion of the model is becoming increasingly more important. While Operate (O) and Maintain (M) add another level of complexity, these segments provide benefits such as expertise and efficiency to the project once completed. These are not all the examples of P3 contract types, and I’m sure even more will emerge as partnerships evolve. Still, they all have one thing in common: they combine and leverage the strengths and resources of public and private entities for more efficient, sustainable, and effective infrastructure development and service delivery. Long-term lease and concession agreements are generally applied to existing or ageing assets. DBFOM or components of that method can be applied to existing assets as a form of redevelopment or in a new build scenario.
One of the most well-known examples of a P3 is a Long-Term Lease and Concession Agreement, in which a private entity can operate and collect revenue from the parking facilities for a specified time limit, generally
30 to 50 years. These time limits can be shorter or longer, but the 30- to 50-year contracts are the most common. In most concession agreements, the public entity retains ownership of the assets and some of the decision-making responsibility. The concessionaire must invest capital into the assets for improvement, maintenance, expansion, or other long-term activities. Usually, there is an upfront or ongoing payment to the public entity that can be used to fund other projects outside of the parking program. In a university, these funds can be used for academic initiatives. Healthcare can use the funds to expand medical programs and services.
Likely the most cited example of this type of agreement is the concession agreement between The Ohio State University and QIC. QIC provided an upfront payment of $483 million, which is expected to compound to over $3.1 billion for academic initiatives. The University retains control over permit types and fees, parking policies, and the ability to remove up to a maximum number of parking spaces without reimbursing CampusParc, the parking management company that QIC created. According to CampusParc’s website, CampusParc is responsible for managing enforcement, event management, technology innovation, parking facility/surface lot maintenance, operational, capital, and demand risk. Furthermore, the University maintains control and responsibility for the University’s transit system. Separating these duties requires both parties to work together operationally to ensure that the parking and transit systems operate effectively.
Other P3 models are gaining traction and becoming more widely used in municipal, higher education, and healthcare development and redevelopment projects. DBFOMs have traditionally been used in transportation projects, such as toll roads and bridges, but are quickly becoming one of the more popular P3 models in the parking and mobility industry. This process of “bundling” the various aspects of project delivery can reduce the project’s time and cost. This is partially because there is no benefit of deferring blame if something goes wrong, deviates from the schedule, or goes over budget. According to the ICMA, International City/County Management Association, “If something goes wrong during the construction phase, the designbuild P3 precludes finger-pointing because the same contractor is responsible for both design and construction. The same logic applies when adding financing, operations, and maintenance to the design-build bundle. When the same contractor who designs and constructs a facility or infrastructure project will also operate and/ or maintain it, no incentive exists to use cheaper materials that might result in higher operating costs later.”
One very recent example of a Design-Build-Finance partnership is the Miami Parking Authority’s (MPA) College Station Garage redevelopment project. The project includes redevelopment of the existing parking structure and the addition of two residential towers, retail, and commercial space. Once complete, the MPA will own and operate the garage, and the
When the same contractor who designs and constructs a facility or infrastructure project will also operate and/ or maintain it, no incentive exists to use cheaper materials that might result in higher operating costs later.
Parking assets can be so much more than just parking, especially in densely populated urban areas where housing and other community needs may need to be met.
developer will own the residential and commercial space. The developers, College Station Partners LLC, will fully fund all aspects of the project, so there is no cost to the MPA. One stipulation of this arrangement is the inclusion of workforce housing. According to the Urban Land Institute (ULI), workforce housing is defined as housing that is affordable to households earning 60 to 120% of the area median income (AMI) – or the median income for a family of four. This provides an opportunity to meet the housing needs of families struggling to afford market-rate housing in a high-cost area. This project provides 35% of units for affordable housing. The MPA has also developed standards for all parking facilities, ensuring that the design and operational aspects meet the community’s needs. The College Station Garage is located across the street from Miami-Dade College and in the middle of a transit corridor for Downtown Miami, a four-minute walk from the light rail station. It also
serves as a parking location for Miami’s cruise terminal. With nearby attractions such as parks, restaurants, and entertainment, this development is pioneering the way parking and mobility can help meet the needs of its communities through affordable housing and mixed-use spaces. It is important to note that parking authorities like MPA can operate differently from municipal parking departments. Authorities generally have more independence and autonomy than parking departments, and the members of an authority are appointed rather than elected. Authorities generally have more flexibility in decision-making, which can speed up the process for improvements and investments.
P3s for Mobility
P3s are not only used for the development and redevelopment of parking facilities. Partnerships can be formed to provide community mobility hubs, increase electric vehicle infrastructure, build and repair roadways, and improve transit systems. Mobility hubs can partner with advertising agencies to fund bus shelters, including charging ports and Wi-Fi. Moreover, the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration have released a report that details the specifics and best practices of entering
into a P3 to assist government agencies in expanding electric vehicle charging Infrastructure (EVCI).
Transportation network companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft have successfully partnered with public organizations to provide first- and lastmile services and supplement transit services. This can be done through para-transit services, “free-rides,” and on-demand transit services. While the funding for these services usually comes from federal grants and municipal budgets, cost savings can be found in using private entities to provide the services. In many cases, there is a cost to the user of this service, which can also offset the program’s expense.
One successful example of P3s for transit is the use of Via in the city of Arlington, Texas. Arlington’s transportation app allows riders to book affordable rides anywhere in the service boundary for no more than $5. The service provides riders with an affordable way to use transit services and avoids the surge pricing that traditional rideshare apps implement. In partnership with Via but as a separate P3, Arlington’s RAPID program (Rideshare, Automation, and Payment Integration Demonstration), provides autonomous vehicle rideshare to a smaller portion of the city, including Downtown Arlington and The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). The same fares apply to this service, but eligible UTA students, faculty, and staff ride for free. A private company, May Mobility, operates the service. According to the City of Arlington, the total two-year cost for all services is $30.2 million, of which $22 million is for the Via Rideshare service, $180,000 for the student transportation program, $4 million for RAPID, and $4 million for expansion. The $22 million includes 40% funding from the Federal Transit Administration, while the city covers
60%. The North Central Texas Council of Governments funds the student portion, and an additional $5 million is expected from fare and advertising revenue.
P3s can be used in many ways to improve our parking and mobility infrastructure. So, what’s next?
The Future of P3s in Parking and Mobility
Federal, state, and local governments are beginning to embrace P3s in various ways, such as passing the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) in 2021. This bill allocates $1.2 trillion to improving US infrastructure, including roads and bridges, improving public transportation, and building a national EVCI network. The bill helps encourage the use of responsible P3s by doubling the cap of private activity bonds, which are tax-free, allocating $20 million annually for P3 technical assistance programs to help state and local governments obtain expert consulting services. The funding for this bill currently expires in 2026.
I had the pleasure of speaking with Alejandra “Alex” Argudin, PTMP, CEO of the Miami Parking Authority and Chair of IPMI, about her organization’s successful use of P3s, lessons learned, and how P3s can continue to find success in the parking and mobility industry. We discussed the need for parking professionals to begin thinking outside the (parking) box. Parking assets can be so much more than just parking, especially in densely populated urban areas where housing and other community needs may need to be met. This is a huge opportunity for parking owners to leverage land space for vertical growth. Integrating these projects into mobility hubs may also be key to providing more sustainable environments and accessing the funds needed. Alex also emphasized the importance of planning and right-sizing
the parking for the intended development. Engaging with consultant experts who can determine the appropriate demand, identify external demand generators, and provide operational recommendations is key in the early phases of development and crucial to a successful partnership.
As legislation and policy changes emerge, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for parking and mobility public-private partnerships. There are so many unknowns. Is there enough time to capitalize on existing funding? Will additional government funding be made available in the future? If not, does that make the P3 even more attractive for both parties? While only time will tell, one thing remains certain: infrastructure improvements and rehabilitation of aging assets are essential to building our future and require participation and cooperation from both private and public sectors to get the job done. ◆
LAUREN NELSON, PTMP , is a Parking Consultant with Walter P Moore, and a member of the IPMI Planning, Design, & Construction Committee. She can be reached at lnelson@ walterpmoore.com
Alex Argudin, PTMP
by Thomas Szubka, PTMP and Bobby Mordenti, M.U.D.
RECENT TRENDS IN DOMESTIC MIGRATION in
FINDING The Importance of Wayfinding in a Modern Parking Environment
the United States have caused shifts in parking programs nationwide. Some areas surge while others decline, but both force parking programs to look at opportunities to make more efficient use of their supply. The cry “there just isn’t enough parking” often begins long before the demand reaches capacity. Costs to build additional parking inventory are prohibitive, and the answer cannot always be to build additional lots or garages, forcing the need to maximize existing parking inventory. In areas where demand wanes, directing motorists towards available parking may be a newfound challenge for parking programs.
In all situations, visitors who may not yet know their way around your parking system can get frustrated when parking opportunities are unclear or when alternatives cannot be effectively communicated. A proper parking wayfinding plan can help soothe these troubles.
The Importance of Wayfinding
The benefits of implementing good wayfinding program can essentially be distilled into five categories:
● Improving User Experience: A good wayfinding program will provide information in a clear, easy-tounderstand way while providing a sense of place. This gives the user a sense of comfort that they are in the right place with the proper information.
● Promoting Accessibility: Good wayfinding programs provide clear directions and information to all users so they can navigate spaces comfortably.
● Enhancing Safety: Wayfinding helps maintain order and prevent confusion, especially in more dense communities or spaces such as a downtown area or a parking garage. The information provided allows users to access their destination in the most direct and safe manner possible.
● Saving Time and Increasing Efficiency: Wayfinding helps people quickly find their way around an area, reducing the time spent walking or driving.
● Promoting Brand Identity: Wayfinding creates a connection to an area or space while highlighting a welcoming experience for users.
As easy as it is to understand the benefits of a good wayfinding program, it is also easy to make errors that can
thwart its effectiveness. Common pitfalls to be aware of and avoid include:
● The visual clutter and clustering of signs.
● Too much information or highlighting the wrong information.
● Incorrect sign placement.
● Poor sign design or confusing messaging.
● Not maintaining signs. It should be noted that the digital footprint can affect parking and navigation. A common issue is not having a digital presence or a digital presence inconsistent with how the program exists. A digital presence should be encouraged in every wayfinding program; however, it must be designed to match the wayfinding elements to make the proper connection and understanding.
Designing an Effective Wayfinding Plan
To properly design an effective wayfinding plan, make every effort to reimagine the parking experience from the user’s point of view. Parking a vehicle is one of the first and last experiences visitors will have in a community, and your focus should be on ways to improve that customer experience. You should aim to make the experience QUICK, EASY, ATTRACTIVE, and SAFE.
● Making the Experience QUICK: Signs should be easy to read and understand and have limited options to allow for quick decision-making. Opportunities to integrate technology with wayfinding should be encouraged, as parking guidance systems that monitor parking space availability in real time can reduce
YOUR WAY
search times for parking spaces, especially when that availability information is shared at key points. Those decision points are not limited to facility entries but should include entry points to the community to help users navigate to their preferred destination.
● Making the Experience EASY: Provide wayfinding signage and specialty graphics to direct visitors to the appropriate and available parking areas and help orient them after they park. Vehicular directional signage helps guide users to parking for a destination and should be complemented with pedestrian directional signage that will help users get to their destination via elevators/ stairs, sidewalks, and other modes.
● Making the experience ATTRACTIVE: Use wayfinding elements to promote facility or area branding. Identification signs provide a welcome sense of place for infrequent visitors. Specialty graphics can be used to theme areas or levels, reminding users where they park and improving the aesthetics of a facility.
● Making the experience SAFE: Branded, well-maintained, clean, and well-lit facilities give a sense of security and allow the user to have a recognizable way to identify their location and get to their destination in the safest way possible. Lighting improvements increase visibility for drivers and pedestrians and allow for opportunities to highlight high-traffic areas (entries, exits, elevators, etc.) to improve awareness and reduce conflicts.
Design Elements and Implementation Strategies
What does it take to design and implement a wayfinding plan?
First, you must review your existing
wayfinding and signage and develop a working knowledge of the various travel modes and user groups. Are people walking, biking, driving, or taking public transit? Who are the people who are visiting the area? Are they predominantly first-time visitors? Senior citizens or millennials? What is the character of the area? What are the key destinations?
Second, you need to establish a destination hierarchy list that prioritizes specific locations frequently visited in the area. This hierarchy list may vary based on the location, but the goal is to keep the list at any given point to three or four destinations to keep the message simple.
Third, you need to identify key decision points for appropriate sign placement. This is where you use your hierarchy list, allowing users to understand their options and make decisions quickly.
Fourth, input must be gathered to understand the design direction. This
Use wayfinding elements to promote facility or area branding. Identification signs provide a welcome sense of place for infrequent visitors.
input can be collected from community stakeholders and observations of the community’s character.
Fifth, focus on connecting the digital experience of wayfinding to the reality of the location. Often, wayfinding apps will bring the user to the destination address but not the area for parking. Last block communication and visual cues will make all the difference to a positive user experience. Finally, develop design concepts and garner feedback from the decision-makers. Provide concepts for all the different sign types (vehicular directional, pedestrian, parking, etc.) and ensure that they are all unified in design.
Static Signage
● Vehicular signage needs to consider branding (municipality, district, development, etc.) as an element, along with color schemes and readability. Letter spacing and height should be readable relative to the distance and speeds at which the user will view. Easyto-understand icons should be used to replace words whenever possible to facilitate faster comprehension.
● Pedestrian signage should follow the same concepts as vehicular signs but be scaled differently and have different destination locations. Since the comprehension and decision-making processes for pedestrians compared to vehicles are slower, it is possible to provide more detailed information, such as maps and distance calculations on the signs.
● Parking signage should be designed to be consistent with both vehicle and pedestrian signage. Additionally, the types of parking (public, customer, reserved, etc.) and any restrictions should be clearly prioritized. This clarity will help users navigate to the appropriate areas. Utilizing the universal “P” symbol or a variation that aligns with the branding will enhance the users’ visual memory and recognition.
Integration of Technology
Integrating Automated Parking Guidance System (APGS) data that communicates parking space availability is a significant element to consider in a wayfinding program. Combined with static signage, this information can aid the user in deciding and help them with more efficient parking experience. Additional sign technologies, such as variable message boards and digital signage, can allow messaging to be customized to communicate information on events and delays, and be adaptable in real-time. As previously stated, any technology should fit within the branding scheme and enhance the ability to communicate information.
Parking Garage Signage and Wayfinding
Level theming can be a unique opportunity to improve aesthetics and communicate information within a parking facility. Supergraphics, highly visible paint, and artwork can all create a fun and welcoming environment that serves as visual memory cues to help users find and remember the pathways to their destinations. This type of branding and aesthetic improvements will also encourage users to frequent the parking area when returning to the destination in the future.
Lighting
Lighting is incredibly important to a parking garage’s design. Proper lighting provides a perception of safety for pedestrians and vehicles and discourages nefarious behaviors. Lighting will also enhance the theming and design elements of the wayfinding program and highlight the garage’s well-maintained and clean attributes.
Brand Identity and Communications
Creating an effective brand identity is paramount to the success of your wayfinding program and communications efforts. It is crucial to develop uniformity in the parking brand and logos and use a recognizable visual theme across all mediums, including website communications,
Additional sign technologies, such as variable message boards and digital signage, can allow messaging to be customized to communicate information on events and delays, and be adaptable in real-time.
parking and pedestrian signs, destination markers, and collateral. In our digital environment, it is essential to maintain accurate and up-to-date information online and make it as interactive as possible.
Developing an effective wayfinding program will benefit all types of parking programs. When users can quickly make decisions and easily find their way, their experience is greatly enhanced. Often, with an excellent wayfinding program, users may not even realize that the program exists, as it will reduce distraction from their destinations’ experiences. Still, when it is time to return, they will inevitably be drawn to the parking areas where their experiences were quick, easy, attractive, and safe. ◆
THOMAS SZUBKA, PTMP , is the Director of Planning, Operations, and Technology at Walker Consultants and a member of the IPMI Technology Committee. He can be reached at tszubka@walkerconsultants.com
BOBBY MORDENTI, M.U.D. , is a Senior Planner at Walker Consultants. He can be reached at rmordenti@walkerconsultants. com
Artistry AND FUNCTIONALITY
How Architectural Glass Façades Are Transforming Parking Design
By Said Elieh and Peter Stattler
PARKING OPERATIONS HAVE UNDERGONE SIGNIFICANT ADVANCEMENTS
over the past two decades, primarily due to innovations in parking technology. Similarly, parking structure design has also evolved, embracing both function and aesthetic appeal. Initially, parking structures prioritized function over form, resulting in utilitarian designs made predominantly from concrete, steel, or a combination of both. However, with the refinement of precast concrete processes a generation ago, designers began incorporating elements that complemented surrounding architecture. This development enabled parking structures to integrate various façade materials such as brick, stone, and granite, transforming them into visually appealing landmarks.
Today, parking designers are taking the next step in the evolution of parking design. By incorporating architectural glass, a material that seamlessly merges form and function, designers are creating sleek, beautiful, modern parking structures that don’t just provide parking for cars but also allow parking owners and their architects to introduce artistry into their designs. This modern material enhances the aesthetic appeal of parking structures and introduces sustainable, cost-effective, and operational benefits.
Why Glass?
Parking garages with glass façades are visually striking, functional, and sustainable. When glass is the right choice, it can also be more cost-effective than traditional materials like concrete and steel and provide long-term operational savings by reducing or minimizing the need for daytime lighting and eliminating the need for costly ventilation equipment.
“Glass is performance art…from its fluidity to the way it scatters light in space. We are making spaces to put people in touch with the magic of glass.”
—Thomas Phifer, Architect
Architectural glass façades are typically used for aesthetic reasons. Simply put, a well-designed glass parking structure is typically beautiful. It complements the surrounding architecture, reflects the lighting and weather, and can create an ever-changing artistic landscape.
There are also safety benefits to glass façades, a primary concern for parking designers. A glass façade enhances sightlines inside and outside the structure, improving safety for both pedestrians and drivers. One in five vehicular accidents occurs in a parking facility and enhanced natural lighting and clear sightlines reduce the risk of accidents. At night, glass façades help project interior lighting onto adjacent sidewalks and streets, eliminating dark zones, improving pedestrian safety, and helping to deter crime in and around the garage.
Glass designs also provide essential maintenance and durability benefits that can save owners considerable money over the life of a structure. Unlike metal, glass doesn’t rust, making it a low-maintenance solution for parking structures. It also doesn’t degrade over time like concrete, reducing long-term maintenance costs.
The cost benefits also extend to a garage’s construction. Compared to other façade materials, glass is budget-friendly and offers long-term cost benefits. The cost is comparable to concrete façades and is often less expensive than designing with steel metal panels. Ventilated glass façades can also reduce operational expenses. Traditional parking garages rely on large, costly mechanical ventilation systems to maintain airflow. A ventilated glass façade reduces or eliminates this need, leading to substantial energy savings over time.
Compared to other façade materials, glass is budgetfriendly and offers long-term cost benefits. The cost is comparable to concrete façades and is often less expensive than designing with steel metal panels.
Sustainability is a priority for many parking owners, and glass provides benefits when it comes to green design as well. The lightweight nature of architectural glass means less material is required for manufacturing and transportation, reducing the building’s carbon footprint. And at the end of a building’s lifecycle, glass is one of the easiest materials to recycle. Additionally, glass contributes to energy efficiency by allowing natural light to penetrate deeper into parking structures, reducing the need for artificial lighting. When combined with smart lighting systems and energy-efficient materials, it enhances the overall sustainability of a project while lowering operational costs. Architectural glass backed by comprehensive Health Product Declarations (HPDs) and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), ensuring full disclosure of material ingredients and environmental impact, aligns with LEED and other green building certifications.
Bird collisions with glass are a significant concern in urban environments, and many communities have strict bird-friendly regulations. Architectural glass can achieve a 25 Threat Factor bird-friendly rating on textured pattern or design. This means superior avian protection without compromising the building’s visual appeal or daylighting benefits.
Finally, glass façades provide extraordinary design flexibility. The ability to use varying levels of translucency—from clear to opaque—allows for creative and functional designs. This flexibility is provided using a special enamel made of ground glass known as frit. The enamel is sprayed onto the back of the glass, then fused at high temperatures in a tempering oven, bonding it permanently
to the glass. A similar process has been used in stained glass for centuries, ensuring longlasting color and durability.
There are two primary types of architectural glass used in parking design: channel glass and flat glass. Each provides unique advantages and challenges and choosing which to use depends on individual parking facilities’ distinctive characteristics and requirements.
Channel Glass
Channel glass is a type of architectural glass distinguished by its U-shaped, selfsupporting channels that allow for creating large, uninterrupted glass walls with minimal framing. It is lightweight and extremely strong because of its shape, and it can be used to cover large vertical expanses while maintaining a lower weight per square foot. Weighing approximately 4.5 pounds per square foot (and 7.5 pounds per square foot for the combination of glass and clips to attach the glass to the substructure), channel glass is significantly lighter than laminated flat glass, which can be more than twice as heavy. This makes it easier to install—channel glass can be carried and installed by hand. Channels can also be segmented to easily create curves, which is more cost-effective than bent glass. Additionally, the clamps that connect the glass to concrete and other structural materials are considerably smaller than those that work with flat glass.
Flat Glass
Flat glass, on the other hand, is thicker and heavier and can be more expensive than channel glass. It’s also more complicated to install, requiring larger teams using cranes and other equipment. However, flat glass offers more design flexibility, allowing for wider panel sizes.
Case Study: 727 West Madison Parking Facility, Chicago
The award-winning glass parking structure at 727 West Madison in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood demonstrates many benefits of architectural glass as a parking façade material. Located at the virtual center of the city’s north-south transportation corridor, the development comprises a 45-story luxury residential tower and a five-level, 376-space parking structure atop commercial storefronts. The high-profile project won numerous design awards for both the residential tower and the parking garage.
The garage’s high-performance glass cladding spans five stories. It comprises two diverse wall designs and approximately 24,000
square feet of light-diffusing glass in several distinct decorative designs. Panels are as large as 3 feet wide x 10 feet high, each held by four compression clips – two each at the top and bottom. Individual panels can be glazed and replaced independently of their neighbors. In the initial design phase, multiple alternative solutions were considered, based on drawings and 3D models, and were evaluated on feasibility, structural performance, and ease of installation. Approved models were then 3D printed and reevaluated.
As with any project, budgetary considerations were paramount. To provide additional savings, the glass team created a customized clip system that eliminated the steel supports in the original design. Instead, the glass cladding was attached directly to the concrete walls and slabs through embeds. This innovation also made it possible to push the crash walls out and gain an extra foot of space on the perimeter of each floor.
The design had aesthetic advantages as well. It eliminated shadow lines behind the glass and created a cleaner, airy appearance. Ventilated glass cladding on the north and south sides of the parking structure, facing West Madison Street and the Crowne Plaza hotel, respectively, is arranged staggered in-andout. The customized layout creates 8” spacing between panels for
maximum natural ventilation. It assures that 20% of the façade remains open to the exterior, providing the necessary air flow to offset the need for a mechanical ventilation system, per Chicago’s building code. The precise spacing is achieved through patented aluminum compression fittings and custom-fabricated steel plates.
The parking structure adjoins the high-rise on the garage’s south side, while on the west, the glass façade is relatively closed, creating the need for increased openness on the garage’s staggered north and south sides. To accomplish this, and to provide an elegant architectural appearance, the north and south walls are comprised of staggered “in-and-out” panels, while the remaining walls feature flatter continuous designs. Although the walls feature different glass designs, they utilize the same clip system to attach the glass to the concrete. Ease and speed of installation were key motivators for using a single system to create the two distinct looks. The only difference between the two seemingly contrasting wall designs is the bent steel plates that create staggered panel placement on the north and south elevations.
Distinct decorative glass designs accompany the two wall layouts to further distinguish each parking structure facet. The “in-and-out” north and south walls comprise 546
The translucent decorative glass on all three sides of the parking structure filters a generous amount of daylight, improves the solar shading, and obscures outside-in views of the cars. As light shifts throughout the day, the entire façade changes in unison.
translucent white laminated glass panels, while the “flat” west façade consists of 406 pattern-fritted glass panels, for a total of approximately 1,000 panels. The north/south glass features two levels of opacity. The lites – or individual sections of glass – that punch forward are a more transparent shade, while the background ones are a denser white, visually enhancing the sense of depth. The layered shading and staggered panel placement create a visual “fade” effect that adds to the beauty and dynamic quality of the design. White fritted laminated glass with a custom linear pattern decorates the west façade, creating an enlivening play of shadow and light that appears to float over the concrete structure.
Due to the consistent size and shape of the glass panels, it was determined that a silk-screened / fritted pattern was the most cost-effective solution. Three unique screens were produced to create the three primary design motifs. Rotating and mixing these achieved the desired visual variability without increasing the cost. The resulting white pattern-fritted glass effectively screens the parking decks, creating a chic monolithic appearance when viewed from the street while maintaining occupants’ visibility to the outside. The translucent decorative glass on all three sides of the parking structure filters a generous amount of daylight,
improves the solar shading, and obscures outside-in views of the cars. As light shifts throughout the day, the entire façade changes in unison.
The garage’s spiral access ramp also inspired the elliptical shape of the tower. Contrasts are equally evident. They visually break the building mass and add depth to the design. On the east side, the parking facility adjoins the tower. On the north and south, the more open glass façades maximize air flow and provide the main outlet for natural ventilation. The design lets in natural daylight and fresh air while providing solar shading and protection from wind-driven rain and snow.
The garage’s sweeping floor plan and open-ventilated glass façade also allow virtually unrestricted “natural surveillance” opportunities—to see and be seen and hear and be heard. As with any parking facility design, safety and security are vital considerations, and these design approaches provide passive security to support the garage’s active security features.
Engineered for strength and durability, the glass has already weathered one uncharacteristically stormy Chicago winter season. The laminated safety glass was specially formulated for the demanding, exposed-edge exterior application, using specialized UV-stable PVB interlayers that block as much as
99% of UV radiation. The durable architectural glass is maintenance-friendly and resists permanent staining and graffiti. Water rolls off its smooth, non-porous surfaces, which can easily be cleaned with traditional window washing techniques.
Finally, the garage’s high-end appearance increases the appeal of the retail space to tenants and shoppers. Currently, the building houses a number of well-known stores and services, including a Chase Bank branch, a Solidcore location, a therapeutic massage boutique, and an AT&T mobile store.
A Transformational Façade Material for Parking Structures
Architectural glass is a transformational façade material for parking structure design. It offers a tremendous blend of beauty, functionality, and sustainability. It also offers extraordinary flexibility, allowing owners and their architects to create beautiful, functional buildings that perfectly complement the surrounding architecture.
Equally important are the cost benefits. While prices vary from region to region, the cost of using glass as a façade material is comparable to that of concrete and is often less expensive than steel. While glass façades look
costly, they don’t need to be. And the ongoing operational cost benefits are even more pronounced. Because glass admits so much natural light into parking areas, owners and operators can save considerable money on lighting costs. And when ventilated glass design approaches are pursued, they can reduce—or even eliminate—the need for costly mechanical ventilation equipment.
Whether lightweight channel glass or durable flat glass is used, this material allows for innovative, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient solutions. By integrating architectural glass into parking design, parking owners and their architects can create structures that are not only practical but also visually stunning landmarks within their communities. ◆
STATTLER is Director of Sales at Bendheim Glass. He can be reached at pstattler@bendheim.com
SAID ELIEH is Vice President of Innovation at Bendheim Glass. He can be reached at selieh@ bendheim.com.
PETER
Parking Revolution The
When Data Meets Design
By Raksha Vashishta
The Silent Crisis Beneath Our Cities
As the minutes before your critical meeting pass by, picture yourself doing your sixth lap around a city street, your nervousness growing. Or imagine hundreds of distressed fans circling through congested parking lots as a stadium empties after a game.
The parking sector is at an inflection point. A conventional search for a parking spot has turned into an arena of competing interests, such as revenue, accessibility, user experience, and urban planning.
As more individuals own cars, cities become denser. These are not just inconveniences but symptoms of an industry ripe for transformation. The conventional ways of pouring more concrete for more spaces are no longer viable, and the change was inevitable.
From Concrete to Code: The Data Revolution
The modern parking facility is evolving from a passive infrastructure to a living, breathing digital organism.
Gone are the days when parking managers counted cars and collected quarters. Modern innovative businesses transform their facilities into powerful centres designed to collect data. Throughout the optimization process, every transaction, every inhabited space, and each second of dwell time provides insightful data.
The outcomes are evident. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning systems can now forecast occupancy trends with precision. Recent research demonstrates that random forest algorithms show remarkable performance in IoT-enabled environments. These algorithms allow operators to anticipate demand fluctuations before they materialize, transforming reactive parking management into proactive space orchestration.
The metrics themselves have
evolved beyond simple occupancy rates. Forward-thinking parking managers now analyze revenue per space, average parking duration, and user behavior patterns with the precision of technology companies tracking user engagement. These data points serve as the north star for strategic decision-making, guiding investment and optimization with unprecedented clarity.
The Human Element: Designing for Delight, Not Just Density
Behind every parking transaction lies a human being with anxieties, expectations, and limited patience.
The most revolutionary parking innovations begin with a disarmingly simple question: “What frustrates users about parking?” This user-centered approach has transformed the industry’s thinking from infrastructure-focused to experience-focused.
Looking for a parking spot is increasingly challenging as cities get denser, costing drivers valuable time and leaving them more discontented. The emotional cost
is significant, as is the chance to develop solutions beyond capacity expansion to boost satisfaction. Mobile interfaces now exquisitely meet customers’ key demands: detecting accessible spaces, browsing effectively, and easily completing payments. The most effective apps use mobilefirst design principles, creating experiences for smartphones first and then expanding to larger devices. This approach is based on the learning that most of these parking choices are made on the go rather than at desks.
Sustainability has also entered the equation for user experience. According to statistics from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center, approximately 9.2% of all new U.S. car registrations were for EVs in 2023 (DOE, 2024). New parking applications now incorporate EV charger availability, enabling users to discover and book parking and charging in one transaction. These development shifts focused on user-centricity to forecast new user demands and needs beyond the current issues.
The Numbers That Tell the Story
● San Leandro, California’s Stunning Transformation: The city experienced a jaw-dropping 900% increase in monthly transactions after implementing digital parking solutions. This growth primarily resulted from the city’s implementation of a unified smartphone app system that allowed users to find, reserve, and pay for parking easily.
● Lancaster, Pennsylvania’s Revenue Revolution: An 850% surge in monthly transactions, from 1,000 to 9,500 between 2015 and 2018, following the implementation of bundled parking management systems with mobile payments. The conversion was achieved by replacing outdated coin-operated meters with a combination of smart kiosks and a simple mobile payment system.
● Berkeley, California’s Sustained Success: Year-over-year user growth exceeds 40%, with transaction volume increasing by 52%, proving the lasting value of digital transformation with interconnected mobile parking solutions. The application of realtime space availability data and easy payment options spurred this sustained growth in user adoption.
● Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania’s Profit Without Pavement: Parking revenue skyrocketed by $13 million following the implementation of smart parking technology and electronic payment systems, without adding one additional parking spot. Revenues jumped from approximately $5.5 million to $18 million because of the city’s switch to new meter technology alone, illustrating how technological advancements can significantly affect revenue.
● Toledo, Ohio’s Testing Ground: An electronic parking payment solution
Digital Transformation in Parking
rapidly captured 40% of all campus metered location transactions, demonstrating the speed at which customers adopt improved experiences. The university deployed an extensive campus-wide parking solution with a mobile application interface that simplified the parking experience for students and faculty.
● Mercedes-Benz Stadium (GA, Atlanta) Game-Changing Approach: Over 70% of visitors currently book parking on arrival, with over 310,000 bookings made since 2017. Five strategic solutions were implemented in the stadium:
● Centralized reservation system for 20,000 places over multiple operators.
● Interactive visual maps showing accurate lot spaces within walking distances.
● Digital filtering features for optimal price, distance from the stadium, and ease of exiting.
● Personalized access codes for the different user types.
● Navigation integration with real-time routing.
Through the transition, the stadium has achieved the second-best fan arrival satisfaction experience and the firstranked NFL and MLS “Voice of the Fan” survey responses in major league sports research studies conducted by the Sports Business Journal.
Beyond Numbers: The Transformation in Action
These implementations reveal core product management principles at work:
● Evolutionary Design: As small victories compound over time, cities are adopting digital parking solutions at an exponential rate. User data constantly refines the service, creating a virtuous cycle of enhancement.
● The Power of Simplicity: Norwalk, Connecticut’s Transportation Director finds that a majority of the time, once someone uses the app, they never go back to using traditional payment methods—firm evidence of an experience that solves user challenges.
● Decision-Making Clarity: A refreshingly straightforward criterion—user adoption—drives technology decisions for most parking authorities. The underlying question is: “If the customers don’t use it, what’s the point?”.
● Flexible Business Models : The University of Toledo, Ohio, converted permit-only lots into flexible daily decision parking spaces by utilizing digital management systems, opening new revenue streams, and capturing one-fourth of daily permit adoption, even amid slower campus traffic congestion during rush hour.
● Less Is More: Data can sometimes contradict conventional knowledge about preferences. For example, the town of New Hope, Pennsylvania, found that having a variety of mobile payment alternatives did not provide additional value but complicated things for customers.
The Future of Parking: Bytes, Not Bricks
The next parking revolution will not be built with concrete and steel but with data and design.
The most successful parking innovations share a transformative mindset that mirrors modern product management:
1. Parking as Service, Not Structure: The physical space becomes just one component of a broader mobility service.
2. Data as Driver, Not Distraction: Continuous measurement creates continuous improvement.
3. User Experience as North Star: Design decisions flow from user needs, not operational convenience.
4. Integration Over Isolation: The most valuable parking solutions connect seamlessly with broader mobility ecosystems.
Unified Mobility Vision Based On Product Management Principles
The Product Management Mindset in Parking Operations
Embracing these product management principles can help unify offerings typically seen as commodity services into a more holistic experience that drives customer loyalty. Optimizing space utilization can further foster sustainable growth without introducing additional capital investment for new infrastructure.
Tomorrow’s parking lot will be more than just a location designed to hold cars. In the urban transportation network, it will be a perceptive node that anticipates stakeholder needs, maximizes resources, and creates more enjoyable experiences. Finding additional parking spots is the penultimate goal of the future; the ultimate goal is to create value in the places we currently have.
RAKSHA VASHISHTA is a Product Owner at Verra Mobility. She can be reached at raksha.vashishta@ verramobility.com.
REFERENCES
1. Dahiya, M., et al. (2024). “Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Parking Space Availability in IoT-Enabled Smart Parking Management Systems.” Journal of Advanced Transportation.
2. ECO Parking Technologies (2025) “Parking Analytics: Essential Metrics for Facility Managers.” Retrieved from https://www.ecoparkingtechnologies.com
3. ParkHub. (2024) “The Ultimate Guide to Parking Analytics: 5 Ways to Apply Data Insights.” Retrieved from https://parkhub.com/parking-analytics/
4. Innovative Parking Apps Developed by Top Mobile App Development Company (2024) Retrieved from https://developersappindia.com
5. Waite, R. (2024) “What Are Mobile App UX Design Trends in 2024?” Retrieved from https://www.robinwaite.com
7. Smart Cities Council. (2021) “Case Study: The Pittsburgh Parking Authority.” Retrieved from https://smartcitiescouncil.com
8. Transportation Research Board. (2021) “Case Study: City of Berkeley, California.” Retrieved from https://www.trb.org
9. American Planning Association. (2021) “Case Study: City of San Leandro, California.” Retrieved from https://www.planning.org
10. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). (2024). “Electric Vehicle Registrations by State.” Alternative Fuels Data Center. Retrieved from https://afdc.energy.gov/data/
11. ParkMobile. (2023). “San Leandro, California Parking: Case Study on Mobile Payment Implementation.” Retrieved from https://parkmobile.io/case-studies/ san-leandro-parking-compliance/
12. Lancaster Parking Authority. (2023). “Annual Report 2023: Digital Transformation Results.” Retrieved from https://www.lancasterparkingauthority.com/reports
13. City of Berkeley Transportation Division. (2024). “Parking Management Annual Report.” Retrieved from https://www.cityofberkeley.info/transportation/
15. University of Toledo Transportation Services. (2024). “Campus Parking Modernization Outcomes.” Retrieved from https://www.utoledo.edu/facilities/ parking/
16. Sports Business Journal. (2023). “Stadium Experience Rankings 2023: Venue Accessibility and Amenities.” Retrieved from https://www. sportsbusinessjournal.com
PTMP serves as a cornerstone for demonstrating a comprehensive base of knowledge about our industry. No other credential comes close. You wouldn’t get surgery from someone who is not an M.D. or get in a plane flown by someone without a pilot’s license. When the position matters, the credential matters and PTMP is the definitive credential in our industry.”
Brett Munkel, PTMP
Vice President, Healthcare & Higher Education
SP+,
a Metropolis Company
2025 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE
23 projects recognized for creativity and innovation in the 2025 IPMI Awards of Excellence program.
By Dorothy J. Verdon, CPSM
IPMI’S AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE PROGRAM provides an incredible opportunity to promote the fantastic work that member organizations do across the board and throughout the country. This year’s winners span seven categories, with projects and programs that inform, innovate, and inspire. Amidst many compelling submissions, 26 volunteer judges selected the most exemplary for an Apex Award and worthy contenders for Honorable Mention.
The Apex Award recognizes projects and programs that invigorate the parking and mobility industry and celebrate unique solutions to unusual challenges. 11 submissions received this top honor, demonstrating an imaginative approach to their assignment. One standout project, the South State Street Garage in Stamford, Connecticut, won Apex Awards in two categories.
The 12 Honorable Mention recipients were chosen because their project or program had a significant local and/or regional impact. Representing the winners in four categories were cities, universities, design and construction firms, parking operators, and software companies.
All the winners shared two things: the desire to strive for excellence as they conceived, planned, and implemented a
project or program, and a proclivity for collaboration. Sustainability emerged as a common thread, and it was exciting to see it applied to a parking-related marketing campaign that resulted in more than 5,000 trees planted on the island of Madagascar.
IPMI proudly showcases exceptional work from our member organizations on the following pages. Everyone who submitted this year is a winner because they are willing to share information and ideas with peers to advance the parking and mobility industry.
Let’s get started with the showcase of winners!
Stamford Transportation Center, Apex Award Winner, Architectural Design
OWNER: The Connecticut Department of Transportation
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Engineer/Parking Consultant: Walker Consultants
● Architecture: KSS Architects
● Design-Build Contractor: Yonkers Contracting Company
● MEP/FP Engineering: Kohler Ronan
● Civil Engineering, Landscape Architecture: VHB
● Architectural Lighting: Bliss Fasman Inc.
● Owner’s Representative: STV
TOTAL COST: $100,000,000
Judge’s Comments:
“An impressive aspect is how the project handles complex urban challenges, like routing South State Street through the garage to keep traffic flowing. Adding bike racks, e-bike charging stations, and a parking guidance system shows a clear commitment to making transportation easier and more eco-friendly. This project stands out because it balances innovative design, user convenience, and environmental responsibility. It’s a great example of how a parking facility can also be a welcoming gateway that reflects and enhances the community it serves.”
TheSouth State Street Garage checked all the boxes in the judging criteria for the dual categories in which it was entered, earning an Apex Award in each. The 350,000-squarefoot facility accommodates 927 vehicles on seven of its eight levels and is a key element in an urban multi-modal transportation center.
Blending stunning architectural design with functional efficiency, the new $100 million parking garage represents the continued evolution of the Stamford Transportation Center (STC), which is the busiest passenger rail station in Connecticut. Owned and operated by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), it serves Metro-North Railroad’s New Haven Line and Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor trains. The multi-modal hub also accommodates CT transit, I-Bus Express, private bus lines, corporate shuttles, taxis, and transportation network companies.
Conceived as a replacement for the original garage structure built in 1987, CTDOT envisioned the South State Street Garage as a low-maintenance facility with a long (75-year) lifespan that would meet the demand for commuter parking spaces associated with the STC. Because it was constructed on a nearby state-owned parcel, the original garage continued to serve commuters until the new one opened.
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
The 2.6-acre project site was traversed by busy South State Street (SR 790) and was partially occupied by a surface lot. Its boundaries are a Metro-North Railroad right-of-way (south), Washington Boulevard (east), the Rippowam River (west), and I-95 (north). The site’s high visibility from I-95, its orientation to the STC, and the presence of South State Street inspired a comprehensive design solution that achieved multiple owner goals of convenience, functionality, accessibility, safety, sustainability, and maintenance.
Rather than reroute South State Street, the garage was designed with a 14’6” clearance at the grade level, and the street runs through it with enough clearance for tractor-trailers. The garage has two vehicular entrances, one on South State Street (eastbound) and the other at Washington Boulevard (southbound). Combining a single-threaded helix circulation system and a parking guidance system makes it easy for commuters to find the first available space. Handicapped parking is located on Levels 2 and 4 and pay-on-foot kiosks are on each parking level.
Pedestrian vertical circulation is provided by a bank of three elevators located at the south corner, with stair towers at the other three corners. An elevator stop and stairs from Level 2 provide direct access to rail service at Track 5. The garage connects to the STC’s concourse level via a 320-foot-long, glass-walled pedestrian bridge on Level 4 at the building’s south side. Soaring 45 feet above the street, it is a prominent gateway to the city, boldly displaying “Welcome to Stamford” across its span in 8-foot-high letters.
The garage is constructed of more than 800 precast concrete panels. Its mass is intentionally camouflaged by the façade treatment, which features photovoltaic panels and +/- 900 variably
sized, curvilinear perforated aluminum panels installed at varying angles to create a dynamic, undulating pattern. Integrated with the panels are more than 4,500 color-changing LED luminaires that transform the facility at night into a glowing beacon.
Other key features include 92 vehicle charging stations, 120 bicycle parking spaces, and 50 e-bike charging stations. To protect bicyclists from cross-traffic, the bike racks and charging stations are located on the grade level near the office.
A grand opening ceremony, attended by local and state officials and the public, was held on February 26, 2024. During this ceremony, the South State Street Garage was recognized as a laudable civic achievement accomplished through the joint efforts of numerous stakeholders and the project team.
Facility Design | Stand-Alone
Dublin Transit Center Parking Garage
AWARDED TO: McCarthy Building Companies
OWNER: Alameda County General Services Agency
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Design Director/Construction: McCarthy Building Companies
● Architecture: International Parking Design, Inc.
● Construction Manager: Consor Engineers
● Structural Engineering: Culp & Tanner, Inc.
● Mechanical and Plumbing Engineering: Air Systems Service and Construction
● Electrical Engineering: The Engineering Enterprise
● Art Program Manager: Alameda County Arts Commission
● Mobil Parking Software: Flowbird
TOTAL COST: $28,800,000
Judge’s Comments:
“This project exemplifies how parking can support both alternative modes of transportation and community development. The facility was intentionally designed with the future in mind, while providing the necessary amenities to effectively serve today’s users.”
Whenthe Dublin Transit Center Parking Garage opened in June 2024, it fulfilled the need for additional parking spaces at the Dublin/Pleasanton BART station. Located on half of a four-acre site next to another BART garage, the five-level, $28.8 million facility was Alameda County’s first design-build project since 2017. The McCarthy/International Parking Design team was charged with producing a facility that would blend with nearby residential and commercial buildings and be responsive to future affordable housing development on the remaining site.
Alameda County praised the new garage as “…more than just a parking facility; it’s a blueprint for future urban development, combining sustainability, convenience, and community engagement.” Developed through a collaboration between county government, the County Arts Commission, the City of Dublin, and the Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority, the project leveraged civic partnerships to showcase a shared commitment to creating more sustainable, accessible, vibrant urban spaces. Beyond its positive impact on the community and environment, the garage also serves as a revenue source for the county.
The garage accommodates 507 parking spaces, 32 bicycle lockers, six electric vehicle charging stations, and dedicated parking for 11 autonomous electric shuttles. Anticipating future needs, the design-build team also incorporated an 18,000-squarefoot ground-level space designated for mixed-use conversion. This area accommodates a parking management office, private and public restrooms, separate electrical, water, and sewage metering
with tenant connection points, segregated access to elevator control rooms, and infrastructure for additional EV charging stations.
Among the elements supporting the project’s sustainable design objectives and contributing to its Parksmart Bronze and CalGreen certifications are energy-efficient HVAC equipment; efficient plumbing fixtures; drought-tolerant landscaping; predesigned solar-ready infrastructure; shared parking to maximize 24/7 utilization; natural ventilation; and integration of the landscape for stormwater management. Eighty percent of the materials used to build the facility were regionally sourced, and during construction 94% of waste was diverted, surpassing the city’s minimum of 75%.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles were applied to promote safety. Elements included interior and exterior lighting, an open and protected ground level, clear wayfinding signage, passive and active security systems, and mobile parking technology. Security is enhanced with lighted
commuter paths, evenly lit stairwells, and strategically placed cell phone repeaters and CCTV cameras.
Great care was taken in designing a façade that harmonizes with its surroundings while remaining visually appealing to users. In a competition sponsored by the County Arts Commission, local artist Phillip Hua was chosen to create the artwork now adorning the garage’s five-story, glass-enclosed stair tower. Hua’s design— printed on glass using durable, permanent ceramic frit—depicts flocks of birds soaring through the sky, symbolizing movement in its most natural form.
The Dublin Transit Center Parking Garage was made possible through funding and collaboration by the Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority and the Alameda County Transportation Commission. It skillfully embodies their pledge of enhancing the quality of life in the county by providing safe, efficient, accessible, and environmentally responsible transportation options that meet diverse mobility needs.
Facility Design | Stand-Alone
Butterworth Hospital South
Employee Parking Structure
AWARDED TO: Fishbeck
LOCATION: Grand Rapids, Michigan
OWNER: Corewell Health
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Architecture and Engineering: Fishbeck
● Construction Manager: Pioneer Construction
● Hardware: Traffic & Safety Control Systems, Inc.
TOTAL COST: $53,200,000
Thedesign-build team’s greatest challenge in planning Butterworth Hospital’s new $53.2 million employee garage was incorporating a portion of the existing structure it was set to replace. The original facility housed critical infrastructure, including emergency generators and diesel fuel storage tanks, that had to remain operational during construction. Selective demolition freed the essential area for retrofit and integration with the new one, and the challenge was overcome through design creativity and meticulous construction phasing.
Completed in May 2024, the seven-level garage provides 989 parking spaces. To maximize capacity, the design employed clear-span construction over the integrated existing structure. This was made possible by 75-foot-long precast double tee beams supported by castin-place concrete girders, which eliminated the need for temporary shoring atop the original building.
The design prioritized function, safety and security, sustainability, aesthetics, and user convenience. Visually, the garage blends seamlessly with the surrounding medical campus through the artful arrangement of precast concrete walls and colored spandrels, brick masonry, security fencing, and lighting. Sustainable elements were central to the design and include a roof level prepped for future photovoltaic panels, six Level 2 EV charging stations, bike and motorcycle parking, and an in-slab snowmelt system powered by recovered waste heat.
A user-centered design approach is evident throughout the facility. Employee access is streamlined via ID card readers, dedicated entry and exit lanes for peak traffic management, and an internal speed ramping system. Safety features include open sight lines, enhanced natural and artificial lighting, wayfinding signage, security cameras, and access-controlled pedestrian doors.
HONORABLE MENTION
FACILITY DESIGN STAND-ALONE
Facility Design | Stand-Alone
Mount Sinai Medical Center
Employee Parking Garage
AWARDED TO: KVC Constructors, Inc.
LOCATION: Miami Beach, Florida
OWNER: Mount Sinai Medical Center
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Construction: KVC Constructors, Inc.
● Architecture: Netta Architects
● Façade Architect, Lighting Design: Faulders Studio
● Landscape Architecture: Andres Montero Landscape Architecture
● Façade Panel Manufacturer: Zahner
● Façade Lighting Controls: Lumentender Control Solutions Inc.
TOTAL COST: $30,229,150
Situated
along the edge of Biscayne Bay and adjacent to the bustling Julia Tuttle Expressway, Mount Sinai Medical Center (MSMC) continues its steady campus expansion. Long plagued by limited parking, the hospital has addressed this need with a new six-level, 929-space garage at the site’s southwest corner. The garage currently provides parking for employees and will also serve a new cancer center scheduled to open next year.
The stunning façade—replete with overlapping curves, interwoven geometries, and LED lighting—effectively softens the mass of the six-level structure while referencing its surroundings. Custom-manufactured perforated metal panels span three elevations and cover 27,000 square feet, giving the garage a distinctive presence. Beyond aesthetics, the $30.2 million design-build project is a model of functionality. Built on a constrained site on a bustling medical campus, the new structure connects at four levels to the adjacent existing garage via vehicular bridges. Parking and wayfinding signage assist drivers and pedestrians, and all levels are well-lit and contain security cameras. There are ADA single and van parking spaces on every level, and Levels 4 and 5 provide a total of 24 EV spaces.
Construction posed significant logistical challenges, particularly in maintaining hospital and construction traffic flow through the campus’s only loop road. The team implemented a carefully orchestrated delivery schedule for the large precast structural elements to avoid disruptions. Collaboration with MSMC’s engineering team and utility providers was critical to successfully relocating underground infrastructure—including power, domestic and condenser water, fire protection, and low-voltage lines—to make way for the new foundations.
● Parking Consultant, Structural Engineering: KimleyHorn and Associates, Inc.
● Architecture, Interior Design, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering: TSP
● Civil Engineering, Project Management: KLJ
● Construction Contractor: Henry Carlson Construction
TOTAL COST: $62,000,000
Peakdemands for parking that exceeded the supply, and limitations on constructing additional surface lots at Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), resulted in a new $62 million, four-story parking garage that added 960 spaces to their inventory when it opened in October 2024.
Conveniently located in front of the terminal on the site of the short-term lot, the cast-in-place posttensioned concrete structure was designed with airport parkers—and the future—in mind. Features include options for short- and long-term parking; a posh, temperature-controlled skywalk connecting to the terminal; EV charging stations; photographic murals that brighten elevator lobbies, color-coded for wayfinding; and a level-by-level parking guidance system. Future growth was addressed with a flexible design that allows for horizontal expansion and accommodation of commercial vehicles on the ground level.
The building itself is a billboard of sorts, with two huge (24-ft. by 58-ft.) LED displays on its north and south corners. The programmable displays quickly became a highlight for both parkers and drivers on Minnesota Avenue, a primary arterial roadway that runs along the east side of the airport.
The structure’s façade reflects terminal design elements, with soft curves referencing the falls of the Big Sioux River nearby. Linear airfoil-shaped battens suggest an abstract wave along the elevations and are animated with LED lighting. The curved exterior canopies are sheathed in blue polycarbonate panels, with daylight filtering through as they cover vehicles at the entry and exit ramps and for pedestrians at the front of the building.
HONORABLE MENTION
FACILITY DESIGN STAND-ALONE
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● Construction Manager: Benchmark Construction Company
● MEP Engineering: Moore Engineering Co.
● Civil Engineering: C.S. Davidson, Inc.
● Acoustical and Vibration Engineering: Phoenix Noise & Vibration
● Art Façade Designer: R&R Studios
TOTAL COST: $34,000,000
Judge’s Comments:
“The Christian Street Garage is an excellent example of how a parking facility can become more than just a place to park. With a public library, retail space, and a rooftop event area, it’s been transformed into a vibrant community hub that brings people together. Smart features like QR code access and License Plate Recognition make parking easy, while the green roof and stormwater management system firmly commit to sustainability. Thoughtful touches, like the children’s play café and pedestrian-friendly design, make the space welcoming and safe for everyone.”
Sincethe Victorian era, the 100 block of North Queen Street has reflected the socio-economic evolution of downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The 21st century marked a new chapter with the relocation of Lancaster County government offices to the former Armstrong World Industries headquarters at mid-block and the establishment of Binns Park at its entrance. Directly across the street to the east lies Lancaster Square, a 0.78-acre site that has undergone multiple transformations over the years, including its 1971 incarnation as a community gathering space defined by Brutalist architecture.
By 2016, Lancaster Square had fallen into disuse and was defined by vacant storefronts, weathered concrete structures, and a barren asphalt expanse. An exciting vision for redevelopment soon emerged when the site was identified as the #1 priority for Lancaster’s new City Revitalization & Improvement Zone (CRIZ) program.
The $34 million mixed-use urban renewal project revitalized the square as Ewell Plaza, honoring Olympic medalist and local hero Barney Ewell. The development features a nine-level parking structure, a 40,000-square-foot public library spanning the first two garage levels, and 4,500
FACILITY DESIGN MIXED USE
square feet of commercial space across two floors. It also includes an outdoor, green-roofed event venue with an open-air rooftop restaurant connected to the adjacent Holiday Inn and an indoor play area designed for children aged 0–6.
Positioning the library on the lower two garage levels presented challenges regarding waterproofing, noise, and vibration. To mitigate these issues, the design team specified a separate roof system for the library, composed of structural steel framing, bar joists, a metal roof deck, insulation, and a roofing membrane beneath the first level of the precast double-tee flooring.
Located at 151 N. Queen Street, the new Christian Street Garage was the first component of the phased project to be completed. The precast concrete structure, with 360 spaces, filled an urgent need for additional parking in the city’s downtown core. The facility is open 24/7 and incorporates LED lighting, license plate recognition (LPR) for monthly users, and QR code parking access and revenue control (PARCS) for transient users. Card payments are accepted at the exit, and both cash and card payments are accepted at payon-foot machines in the ground floor lobby. With plans for a future electric vehicle charging station, the fourth floor has two Level 2 dual stations that can power four vehicles.
What truly distinguishes this redevelopment project is the striking “New Lancaster Rainbow” facade, a major public artwork designed by R&R Studios of Miami, Florida. Made up of more than 450 lightweight aluminum tubes, the installation dynamically blends form and color to enliven Ewell Plaza. Each tube was fabricated in Elizabethtown by Quality Metal Works
and powder-coated in Ephrata by Barker Coating Solutions, highlighting the project’s strong ties to the local community. Since its installation in April 2024, this vibrant 3D feature adorning the garage and library façades has become a popular backdrop for social media, using the language of color to celebrate Lancaster’s rich diversity and inclusive spirit.
MOBILITY PROGRAMS & SERVICES
Innovation in a Mobility, Transportation, or Parking Program | Mobility Programs & Services
Gopher Bikes
AWARDED TO: University of Minnesota Parking and Transportation Services
OWNER: University of Minnesota Twin Cities
TOTAL COST: $40,000
Judge’s Comments:
“The mark of a great program is that the assets used are at full capacity and that there is a waiting list filled with interested students. Repurposing discontinued bikes that would have been scrapped is not only a sustainably viable solution, but also a financially responsible one. Having a balanced program that focuses on all modes of travel is extremely important, particularly at a university. What a great project!”
Itis both ironic and fortuitous that the University of Minnesota Twin Cities (U of M) became the beneficiary of another bike share program’s failure. Nice Ride Minnesota was a seasonally operated nonprofit bicycle sharing system in Minneapolis and St. Paul. It launched in 2010 and ceased in 2022 when funding from its primary sponsor was not renewed.
Because the university served as a key location for Nice Ride bike stations and trip destinations, the news initially appeared to hinder its 2050 carbon neutrality goal.
Adversity often drives innovation, and U of M’s Parking and Transportation Services (PTS) department recognized a unique opportunity to further its goals of enhancing mobility, achieving carbon neutrality, and supporting students with financial challenges. In response, the Gopher Bikes program was conceived and launched in September 2023. Its primary objective is to provide students free access to long-term bike loans and daily rentals, fostering sustainable, active mobility while offering a costfree transportation solution.
As a longtime Nice Ride partner, the university requested and received 280 bikes, saving them from the scrapyard and giving them new life. The Twin Cities campus retained 180 bikes, keeping 150 in active rental and 30 in reserve. The rest went to the Morris and Duluth campuses. Registration is open to all students on a first-come, first-served basis. The rental period begins on the first day of instruction for the semester and ends on the last day. The biggest challenge PTS has faced is meeting the overwhelming demand. In its first year, the program checked out all 150 bikes and accumulated a 20% waitlist. The spring 2025 semester bike rental program opened on March 7 and was fully reserved 12 days later.
Navigating the complexities of launching a new service at the university required a collaborative and flexible project management approach. One of the primary challenges was
securing stakeholder buy-in across multiple departments, including PTS, Housing & Residential Life, and Risk Management. Addressing initial concerns, particularly regarding liability and safety, involved careful negotiation with Risk Management to develop a plan that mitigated risks while assuring student accessibility.
International and out-of-state students, in particular, struggle to bring bikes to campus or afford commercial bike rental options. Through partnerships with International Student and Scholar Services and Housing & Residential Life, Gopher Bikes has integrated student outreach and residence hall access, making bikes more readily available where students live.
The most significant financial advantage of the program
was the $0 startup cost for the bike fleet, thanks to Nice Ride’s donation. The program’s first-year budget of $40,000 was primarily allocated to labor costs for a dedicated bike mechanic and support staff. Housing & Residential Life’s existing equipment loan program absorbed infrastructure needs, such as storage and check-out systems.
By turning a challenge into an opportunity, the Gopher Bikes program revived a critical mobility resource for students and reinforced U of M’s commitment to sustainability and accessibility. With overwhelming demand in its first year and strong campus-wide support, the program exemplifies adaptive innovation and proves that transformative solutions can emerge from unexpected circumstances.
Innovation in a Mobility, Transportation, or Parking Program | Innovation & Technology
Lot Spotters
AWARDED TO: University of Houston Parking and Transportation Services
OWNER: University of Houston Parking and Transportation Services
TOTAL COST: $2,748
Judge’s Comments:
“The program’s low cost underscores the practical solution provided by UH with a creative name. Lot Spotters eases the surveillance burden on staff by empowering parking customers to document and upload issues into the system, instantly alerting staff. The fact that all problems encountered during the first seven months were addressed and resolved speaks volumes about the program’s viability.”
Motivated
by the need to address issues that arise in parking facilities quickly, but constrained by decreased funds and staff post-COVID, the University of Houston’s (UH) Parking and Transportation Services department introduced the high-impact Lot Spotters program in March 2024 on a shoestring budget. The program ingeniously harnesses the power of real-time feedback from campus parking garage and lot customers who can use their phones to scan unique QR codes on signage at each facility.
The process is simple. The scanned code opens a short submission form that pinpoints the location of the issue via a map for lots and elevator banks for garages. The submitter— who can choose anonymity or enter their contact information— then describes the issue in their own words and can upload a photo. Once the form is submitted, eight parking team members immediately receive an email detailing the issue.
Within hours of the program’s rollout after Phase 1 signage had been installed, Parking and Transportation Services began to see results. The first involved a professor who scanned the QR code to let them know about trash in the lot she uses, and a broken-down car with flat tires that had not moved in weeks. By the end of that same day, the department had cleared the trash, reached out to the car owner to move it, and updated the professor.
The program’s success in its first seven months was measured by the number of reports submitted, which amounted to 352 individual submissions identifying problems, all of which were addressed. Many of those submissions were from different people reporting the same issue—more than 50 were received about a malfunctioning elevator in the Stadium Parking Garage— which helped the department prioritize their responses.
APEX AWARD
INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY
Developed over several weeks with input from everyone on the parking management team, the program was not without its challenges. Among them were specifying and placing durable metal signs after the first plastic signs were destroyed by Hurricane Beryl, underestimating the number of submissions reporting problems with elevators, and determining the best placement of signage in parking lots, some of which were expansive. The latter concern was resolved by locating signage along the busiest pedestrian routes for exiting the lot after parking.
The only monetary costs associated with Lot Spotters involved signage. For the parking lots, a total of 38 metal signs were created using Creative and Caasco Signs, Inc. of Texas City. The 45 plastic signs installed at the elevator banks were
produced by the UH Copy, Print and Delivery Department. A total of 45 signs were created. No installation costs were incurred, as Parking and Transportation team members installed the signs during regular work hours.
The Lot Spotters program proves that impactful solutions can emerge even under constraints, and that with creativity and collaboration, significant improvements in service and efficiency don’t require a large budget—just the drive to make a difference.
Innovation in a Mobility, Transportation, or Parking Program | Innovation & Technology
Tigers Commute Unified Mobility Platform
AWARDED TO: Clemson University
LOCATION: Clemson, South Carolina
OWNER: Clemson University
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Software Provider: RideShark Corporation
TOTAL COST: $17,544 (for project launch)
Tigers Commute, Clemson University’s new unified mobility and commute management platform, was designed to connect users to campus parking and transportation. The Tigers Commute website and app, available for iOS and Android, feature finding parking options on campus, real-time tracking of campus and community bus routes, electric charging stations, e-bike availability, ride sharing, and much more.
The impending discontinuation of the My.Clemson mobile app, which provided transportation resources, inspired the new platform. Notified well in advance, Clemson’s Parking and Transportation Services (PATS) engaged RideShark Corporation to develop a customized, integrated mobile app using RideShark’s
HONORABLE MENTION
Unified Mobility™ platform. Tigers Commute went live on August 1, 2024, three weeks before the My.Clemson app went dark.
INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY
Innovation was at the heart of this project. PATS could have sat idle as a key marketing platform was removed, and RideShark could have refused to alter its platform. However, the spirit of collaboration prevailed, and the outcome is a unique, robust, and flexible product.
PATS needed a name, logo, app icon, and brand to launch the platform. The team worked with the university’s marketing department to create a brand-compliant logo that pairs the spirit and strength of Clemson with the agility of PATS. A tiger in motion symbolizes the platform’s intent, which is to allow all students, regardless of physical ability, to easily and accessibly navigate the campus and community.
App downloads and accounts created measure Tigers Commute’s success. In the first 90 days of operation, 33.57% of the campus community created accounts, a number that continues to grow.
HONORABLE MENTION
INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY
Innovation in a Mobility, Transportation, or Parking Program | Innovation & Technology
Parking and Mobility Ecosystem
AWARDED TO: LOCATION:
OWNER: Park Omaha
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Parking Consultant: Walker Parking Consultants
● Hardware and Software Provider: Flowbird
● Software Provider: ParkMobile
● Software Provider: Passport
● Software Provider: RISETEK Global
● Software Provider: Vaxtor
● Marketing Consultant: Emspace + Lovgren
TOTAL COST: $3,760,000
In2020, Park Omaha initiated an updated parking and mobility study to assess quantitative and qualitative measures that were first analyzed in 2013. A long-term goal emerged to develop an all-inclusive technology platform that would integrate parking and other services and adopt a progressive/tiered on-street paid parking program.
Three years later, Omaha’s new parking and mobility ecosystem was launched, providing a comprehensive solution that has modernized and streamlined parking operations. Integrating both on- and off-street parking, it uses advanced technologies for mobile payments, multi-space meter payments, fixed license plate recognition integrated with off-street parking access revenue controls, and enforcement and off-street invoicing. The aggregation of all system data obtained through multiple vendor products into a single dashboard has transformed the city’s parking management and positioned it as a leader in urban mobility solutions.
The $3.76 million project was complex, involving integration of on- and off-street systems and replacing or enhancing many of the system components. To manage the initiation, planning, implementation, and close-out phases of the project, Park Omaha used The Project Management Institute’s “Project Management Body of Knowledge.”
The parking ecosystem achieved multiple benefits across owner and user spectrums. The integration of real-time payment data and enforcement capabilities reduced manual tasks by 25%, and the on-street parking progressive rate structure reduced citations by 17% and boosted revenue by 35%. Predictive occupancy data also improved traffic flow, decreased congestion and supported sustainability goals. Consistent payment options across the city enhanced the user experience, which was reflected in a 20% increase in customer satisfaction scores.
Innovation in a Mobility, Transportation, or Parking Program | Innovation & Technology
Guided Enforcement with Real-Time Occupancy and Payment Data and a Digitized Curb
AWARDED TO: Cleverciti Systems
LOCATION: Bend, Oregon
OWNER: City of Bend, Oregon
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Software Provider: Cleverciti
● Software Provider: Passport Labs, Inc.
TOTAL COST: $10,000 (initiation)
Until recently, the city of Bend, Oregon, used LPR-based enforcement in its downtown parking district. To streamline the citation process, Bend opted to take what seemed like a step backward to promote future “parking happiness” for residents, businesses, and visitors. The city’s new strategy transitioned from LPR to an integrated guided enforcement solution that uses live curb occupancy and payment data to report violations in real time to parking officers’ handheld devices. At last, the days of “walk and chalk” citation issuance were over.
To create an integrated and efficient enforcement solution,
HONORABLE MENTION
INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY
the project was implemented through a partnership between Bend and parking software providers Cleverciti and Passport. The entire curb was digitized in Cleverciti’s CleverPortal, applying associated rules to and defining each parking/no-parking space geospatially, for real-time identification of violations, including non-payment, overstays, and illegal parking. The information is synchronized with parking officers’ citation-issuing handheld devices equipped with Passport’s Ops Man Mobile program. The software also removes violations from the devices when the violating vehicle departs, eliminating operational inefficiencies. Cleverciti’s overhead sensors accurately capture the start and end of each parking event throughout downtown, without capturing PII or license plates. Payment data from four providers is fed into the CleverPortal and matched against the parking rules and live occupancy status of each space.
This innovative approach to guided enforcement was introduced in Bend and is so unique that it has been awarded multiple patents.
Innovation in a Mobility, Transportation, or Parking Program | Innovation &
Technology
A ParkBethlehem Parking Management Initiative
AWARDED TO: Bethlehem Parking Authority
LOCATION: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
OWNER: Bethlehem Parking Authority
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Parking Study Consultant: THA Consulting
TOTAL COST: $140,000
Parking occupancy data collected in downtown Bethlehem in 2023 revealed that on-street parking occupancy rates frequently exceeded 90%, above the industry standard of 85% during peak periods. This imbalance led to issues like traffic congestion, increased emissions, and illegal parking. The study found that many drivers spent excessive time circling blocks looking for parking spaces, which increased traffic and negatively impacted residential neighborhoods.
To alleviate these issues, the Bethlehem Parking Authority (BPA) developed ParkBethlehem. This pioneering program introduced a data-driven, demand-based approach to parking
management intended to balance short- and long-term parking needs in high-demand areas. The program features a two-tier metered parking rate system: RapidPark Zone for high-demand areas to promote turnover, and FlexPark Zone for longer-term parkers to encourage use of off-street facilities.
Each metered zone received updated signage, new stickers, and vibrant graphic wraps on parking equipment to help drivers navigate the system more easily. ParkBethlehem also incorporated a “Park Once” initiative, which offers several off-street garage options for extended visits. Accessibility improvements increased the number of on-street metered handicapped spaces.
A comprehensive project management approach was taken to promote smooth implementation and continued success.
The BPA adopted a collaborative framework, engaging various stakeholders, including city officials, local businesses, consultants, and technology partners, to address the program’s complexities. The public was informed of ParkBethlehem’s August 2024 launch and program highlights via local news outlets, an Instagram social media campaign, a printed trifold brochure, a dedicated webpage, and a downloadable one-pager detailing the program.
Innovation in a Mobility, Transportation, or Parking Program | Human Resources
– DEI, ESG, Frontline and Training Programs and Initiatives
Coaching for Success Workshop
AWARDED TO: LAZ Parking
OWNER: LAZ Parking
TOTAL COST: $125,000
Asone of the largest parking operators in the United States, LAZ Parking owns, leases, and manages hundreds of thousands of parking spaces in 469 cities across 42 states. LAZ prides itself in “hiring the best people,” and then providing them with extensive formal and on-the-job training programs that prepare them to excel in the business.
In 2023, LAZ recognized that traditional annual performance reviews were not aligning with their culture, prompting the development of the Coaching for Success Workshop. Built collaboratively from an internal team of 21 leaders from various service lines and leadership levels, the initiative emphasizes continuous coaching throughout the year rather than a one-time evaluation. The program focuses on essential coaching principles, aiming to create a common language and set of tools for effective coaching.
Over the past year, a certified facilitation team has conducted workshops across the United States and Canada, achieving a 73% completion rate among participants, with a target of 80% by year-end. Nearly 2,000 leaders are now applying their newfound skills to inspire and develop over 15,000 LAZ employees. This coaching approach promotes a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, where leaders are equipped to guide their teams in identifying challenges and implementing practical solutions. An offshoot of the program is LAZ University 101, a comprehensive 10week course that dives deeper into coaching culture and leadership development.
With a remarkable 99% satisfaction rating from participants, the Coaching for Success Workshop has become a hallmark of LAZ’s commitment to fostering a collaborative environment and empowering its diverse workforce to thrive.
HONORABLE MENTION
HUMAN RESOURCES
Marketing and Communications
We’re Driving Forward with LPR!
AWARDED TO: Virginia Commonwealth University Parking and Transportation
OWNER: Virginia Commonwealth University Parking and Transportation
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Software: ComSonics
● Hardware: T2 Systems
TOTAL COST: $7,879
Judge’s Comments:
“This marketing campaign was thorough, creative, and seemingly successful in helping the organization transition to a new method of operations. The team at VCU clearly put a lot of time and effort into it, which undoubtedly made the operational transition smoother for the system’s users and the university itself.”
VCU
Parking and Transportation launched the “We’re Driving Forward with LPR” marketing campaign in 2024 to promote transitioning to a virtual permit parking system using license plate recognition (LPR). This initiative marked the first significant change to the university’s parking system since 2015, when the move from attendee-managed booths to more automated systems occurred. By replacing outdated RFID hangtags with LPR, the new system has streamlined parking for over 20,000 subscribers across VCU’s 50 facilities, including 13 decks and multiple surface lots.
This multi-phase and multi-channel marketing campaign was designed to educate the VCU community and foster seamless adoption of the new system by addressing subscriber hesitancy and operational concerns. Targeted communication began with building subscriber awareness before LPR activation, followed by continued education as launch dates approached. Through email, social media, text messaging, signage, video tutorials, ads on RamRide shuttles, and in-person events where staff and leadership wore LPRbranded shirts, VCU Parking and Transportation engaged and informed users at every transition stage.
The campaign played a decisive role in operational success by emphasizing the ease and convenience of the new LPR system. Targeted messages explained how virtual permits would replace physical hangtags, allowing users to manage vehicle information online. Automated email reminders and step-by-step instructions prompted subscribers to update their information promptly, which streamlined the transition and reduced administrative burdens. Clear messaging across
MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
all platforms minimized confusion, especially during peak times, while proactive support—both virtual and onsite during launch days—addressed additional concerns.
Managing the LPR launch and campaign required coordination, creativity, and flexibility to surmount various challenges such as optimizing placement of the LPR cameras, subscriber hesitancy, vehicle-sharing concerns, and the need for further education. Campaign success was confirmed and documented through multiple metrics. Since its launch in February 2024, it generated over 18,000 webpage views, with approximately 293 users registering for one of ten virtual learning sessions. QR codes on signage were scanned more than 1,300 times, indicating strong user engagement. Additionally, 40+ campaign-related emails were sent, achieving an outstanding average open rate of 78.29%.
The marketing campaign was carried out on a modest budget, making it cost-effective and impactful. The total project cost was $7,879, with most expenses allocated to printed materials and mail distribution. Several campaign components, including elevator flyers, virtual learning sessions, and YouTube videos, offered engaging educational resources at no additional cost to the department. Even better, there are no anticipated ongoing costs to sustain the program.
By focusing on customer support and transparency, VCU’s Parking and Transportation team expertly managed the complexities of the LPR system launch across campus. Their comprehensive, multi-channel approach prepared subscribers for the transition and facilitated an efficient system launch that enhanced the parking experience at VCU.
Marketing and Communications
Park YYC
AWARDED TO: The Calgary Airport Authority
OWNER: The Calgary Airport Authority
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Public Relations/Media Consultant: True Media
TOTAL COST: $307,000
Judge’s Comments:
“The Calgary Airport Authority clearly spent significant time and resources on its marketing campaign and achieved enviable results. Their multi-faceted approach to attracting and retaining their various customers groups is commendable, as well as being necessary in the competitive world of airport parking.”
Inlate 2023, The Calgary Airport Authority launched an extensive marketing program to enhance the parking experience at YYC Calgary International Airport. Aimed at frequent travelers, business professionals, and families, the multi-channel campaign leveraged email, social media, radio, sweepstakes and contests, and out-of-home advertising to promote customer convenience, drive revenue growth, optimize operational efficiency, and build brand awareness. Tactics such as weather-dependent ads and partnerships with airlines and community organizations were instrumental in achieving these objectives.
The project was led by YYC’s in-house creative team, which managed content creation and social media strategy. External partnerships with a media agency and radio talent resulted in strategic ad placements and high-quality audio content. The total media buy of $307,000 was strategically allocated across digital and traditional channels, supported by in-house creative production and a 10% agency fee. The multi-channel approach resulted in over 12 million impressions and a 500% increase in email subscribers as of October 2024, significantly boosting brand visibility and engagement.
The campaign’s focus on driving online bookings enabled the parking team to better forecast demand and manage lot capacity, reducing congestion and optimizing space usage. This improved resource allocation and operational efficiency led to cost savings and smoother day-to-day management of parking facilities. Travelers benefited from more available parking spaces, especially during peak times, thereby reducing the stress of finding a spot upon arrival.
Traveler engagement was heightened by the campaign’s most creative features. These included using weather-dependent advertising on The Weather Network app and exterior billboards,
with real-time promotion of covered parking during Calgary’s unpredictable weather conditions, and incorporation of usergenerated content to showcase real customer experiences with YYC’s parking services. By highlighting stories of satisfied travelers who used the pre-booking option, the campaign established credibility and trust and encouraged organic content sharing. Sweepstakes and contests were also highly effective in boosting engagement.
Program creativity extended to forming key partnerships, such as collaborating with a local NHL team (The Calgary Flames), a key airline partner (WestJet), and other organizations to amplify the reach and build trust with key audiences. These purposeful alliances created unique touchpoints that aligned YYC with well-known and respected brands, raising customer awareness and loyalty. The multi-channel marketing strategy established Park
YYC as a recognizable and trusted choice for travelers. Increased competition from off-site parking operators required differentiating Park YYC as the most time-efficient and practical choice for travelers. The campaign promoted the ease of prebooking and benefits of covered parking, and focused messaging established the merits of parking just steps from the terminal instead of having to take a shuttle to the airport from an off-site lot. The program was a win for the airport and travelers alike. The airport saw a 42.0% year-over-year increase in online bookings, a 48.4% revenue boost, and a 4.5% higher average transaction value. For travelers, the parking experience was streamlined and enhanced through pre-booking options that lowered stress levels and increased convenience. Overall, the program contributed to higher customer satisfaction by making parking at the airport more efficient, predictable, and user-friendly.
Marketing and Communications
Parker’s Instagram @ buparkingwithparker
AWARDED TO: Baylor University Parking and Transportation Services
OWNER: Baylor University Parking and Transportation Services
TOTAL COST: $6,240
Judge’s Comments:
“The “Parker’s Instagram” campaign is a fantastic example of how creativity and a sense of humor can transform parking communication into something fun and engaging. By using Parker, the friendly parking cone mascot, the team built an approachable brand that students, faculty, and families could connect with. Posts featuring Parker’s event appearances, holiday outfits, and helpful updates made parking information easy to understand and more memorable. The team’s ability to increase engagement and reduce confusion around parking logistics while working within a small budget demonstrates impressive resourcefulness and innovation.”
Withnine full-time staff, Baylor University’s Parking and Transportation department manages parking access for more than 20,000 students. In the midst of processing thousands of new parking permit ID cards, they were routinely flooded with hundreds of phone calls at the beginning of each semester. Throughout the controlled chaos rang a chorus of “I didn’t know” by anxious students and their parents regarding parking regulations, despite the information being readily available in various locations and formats. Something had to be done.
Without a dedicated marketing position and with a limited budget, the parking team explored options to engage and inform students. All ideas were on the table, and the most resourceful ones involving human billboards and the university’s Baylor Bear mascot inspired the creation of Parker, an anthropomorphized 11-inch-tall orange parking cone that became the literal face of Baylor Parking’s Instagram marketing campaign.
True to its primary mission, Parker’s Instagram account, @ buparkingwithparker, features a combination of daily, weekly, and monthly posts and reels about purchasing a parking permit. Instagram stories are frequently used because the popular short reel format holds viewers’ attention. Baylor Parking saw an opportunity to increase Parker’s value more broadly by using the account to communicate parking information related to campus events, such as closing and clearing a 1,000-space parking garage the evening before football games, and surface lot closures during Homecoming
APEX AWARD
MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
week. Parker’s account, which is managed primarily by one person, also contributes to campus communications by reposting for student organizations and university mascots and sharing university achievements. In return, these campus organizations follow Parker and repost parking messages for their followers.
Parker’s unique, approachable persona has produced a loyal following. In less than two years, @buparkingwithparker gained 2,742 followers, with an engagement rate soaring from 4.4% in April 2024 to 59.3% in October 2024. Reel views range from 300 to 500 daily. To keep interest high and recruit new followers, Baylor Parking promotes the account in creative ways, including the wildly popular “Pastries with Parking” event, held up to four times a year in partnership with Baylor University Police Department’s “Coffee with a Cop” program. The combined donut and coffee giveaway has already diminished the stereotype of “mean parking people.”
The recipe for Parker’s success is in posting news that is informative while also being fun. Humor and approachability are key ingredients, with Parker usually in a hat or scarf with great music playing in the background. Parker has made numerous “inperson” appearances at university events, and Parker stickers are freebies at the “live” events. The original stickers were so popular that two special editions were created, along with a limited run of T-shirts.
A low operating budget, a lovable cone, and more customer smiles than frowns attest to the marketing campaign’s positive impact. The operational burden lifted from the small department by creating a better communication method for under $7,000 annually is tremendous. Baylor University Parking and Transportation Services is looking forward to continuing to engage students with fun, informative posts and of course, plenty of donuts!
Marketing and Communications | Public
UW-Madison Student Bus Pass Marketing Campaign
AWARDED TO: University of Wisconsin-Madison Transportation Services
LOCATION: Madison, Wisconsin
OWNER: UW-Madison Transportation Services
TOTAL COST: $50.00
AtHONORABLE MENTION
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
the University of Wisconsin-Madison, students pay a segregated transportation fee as part of their tuition, which funds a bus pass providing unlimited rides on Madison Metro Transit buses. To be eligible, students must be registered for classes in the current or upcoming semester.
When administrative responsibility for the bus pass program shifted from student government to UW-Madison’s Transportation Services department, an opportunity emerged to improve the process—leading to a marketing campaign to spread the word.
Previously, students had to pick up their bus passes in person every semester. The new system introduced online ordering and reusable tapfare cards, allowing students to keep their pass throughout their enrollment. This change improved inventory management, streamlined fulfillment, simplified pass replacement, and reduced waste— aligning with the university’s sustainability goals. Transportation Services’ primary challenge was making over 50,000 students aware of the new ordering process, program features, and pickup locations, so they could maintain uninterrupted bus access. Collaboration with campus partners and direct outreach through multi-channel social media played a key role, along with shareable print and digital materials, compelling graphics, QR codes, and support from Bucky Badger, UW’s photogenic mascot.
Launched in summer 2024, the campaign proved highly effective—by September, 65% of students had active passes, a 7% increase over the previous year. Remarkably, the effort cost only $50 above standard staffing and labor expenses, successfully distilling complex program changes into a clear, actionable message that encouraged students to order their pass.
Marketing and Communications | Public
“Don’t Be a Chicken, Be a Gamecock” Campaign
AWARDED TO: University of South Carolina
LOCATION: Columbia, South Carolina
OWNER: University of South Carolina
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Software Provider: ParkZen
TOTAL COST: $25,799
TheUniversity of South Carolina’s (USC) Parking and Transportation Services (PTS) team created the “Don’t be a chicken, be a gamecock” campaign to spark interest and user adoption of their new parking app, Park USC, at orientation events. The clever campaign name referenced the university’s Gamecocks football program and incorporated a figurine of the Gamecock mascot to promote the free app. Each figurine had a tag with a QR code to the Park USC app tied around its neck, with a message to purchase a permit and download the free app.
The crowd-sourcing app is powered by ParkZen software and was designed exclusively for the university. It helps users find
available parking near their destination and also provides reminders on where their car is parked, citation warnings, and a platform to upload feedback. The unique “Move-In Feature” prompts students to download the app as they move into their residence hall and then receive directions to associated unloading and parking areas.
The campaign was a collaborative effort between USC PTS, USC Housing, USC Parent and Family Programs, and the USC Police Department. Rollout was coordinated with tabling events at each new student orientation session in summer 2024 and was supported by Facebook and Instagram posts, USC website advertisements, and the Gamecock figurine.
The success of this marketing campaign to promote adoption of the Park USC app is evidenced by post-launch metrics, which revealed 18,000+ unique downloads, 20,000+ unique parking events within the mobile app, 2,300+ unique users, and 6,000+ plays of the Move-In Feature demo video.
Marketing and Communications | Private
Green December Campaign
AWARDED TO: PayByPhone
LOCATION: California
OWNER: PayByPhone
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Program Partner: Eden Reforestation Projects
TOTAL COST: $4,738
Introduced in California on December 1, 2023, PayByPhone’s
“Green December” corporate social responsibility campaign embodied the mobile payment company’s commitment to reforestation and combating global warming. Throughout the month-long initiative, PayByPhone pledged to plant one tree for every 100 parking transactions completed via its app, to help restore Madagascar’s deforested areas. This effort was made possible through collaboration with Eden Reforestation Projects and participating clients, who received supportive media kits.
Green December was promoted through an in-app notification linking to PayByPhone’s campaign webpage, social media posts across three platforms, digital direct mail, email signatures, and a press
release. Transactions were tracked using Looker, with tree count updates shared on social media and the campaign webpage. The final tree count reached 5,627, surpassing the original goal of 5,000. This exciting milestone was announced publicly and shared with clients, who received visual assets for use on their social channels.
The campaign increased user engagement by turning routine parking transactions into acts of environmental stewardship. For California parkers, it offered an effortless way to support reforestation, promoting brand loyalty and corporate responsibility. Customer feedback indicated increased brand trust and satisfaction, and the campaign’s success also led to even greater participation in Green December 2024.
Most rewarding of all, Green December’s contribution of 5,627 trees will remove approximately 225,080 pounds of CO2 from the atmosphere each year—totaling around 5,627 metric tons over the trees’ anticipated 40-year lifespan. This impact directly supports Madagascar’s delicate ecosystem by reducing its carbon footprint.
Restoration: Structured Parking Facility
City Park Garage Expansion at Symphony Park
AWARDED TO: McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.
OWNER: City of Las Vegas
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Construction Manager, General Contractor: McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.
● Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Low Voltage/Technology Engineering: IMEG
TOTAL COST: $29,700,000
Judge’s Comments:
RESTORATION: STRUCTURED PARKING
“The façade truly connected the garage with the Symphony district, seamlessly blending I can only imagine the challenges that the team faced coordinating the project with Union Pacific Railroad, and completing the project ahead of schedule and returning savings to the owner should also be recognized. The pedestrian bridge is a great design, and delivering this key expansion component so efficiently clearly took a high degree of planning, communication, and coordination.”
Symphony
Park is a 61-acre mixed-use development in downtown Las Vegas, spearheaded by the city. In 2019, two new parking garages opened, providing more than 1,300 spaces to support the site’s future growth as well as existing destinations such as The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, the DISCOVERY Children’s Museum, and the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health.
As development at Symphony Park progressed, the demand for additional parking grew, prompting the city to pursue a three-level vertical expansion of City Parkway Garage. This project added 156,000 square feet and 474 new spaces to the existing 570-space facility. A key component of the expansion was the construction of a 154-foot-long, two-lane vehicle bridge spanning the Union Pacific railroad tracks, connecting City Parkway Garage to City Hall Garage. The bridge, which also features a dedicated pedestrian pathway, enhances traffic flow, alleviates congestion, and improves overall accessibility.
The scope of work extended beyond parking capacity, incorporating stair and elevator extensions, mechanical upgrades, and façade treatments to maintain architectural continuity. To further improve accessibility, three new elevators were installed, and one existing elevator was extended. Building material mock-ups ensured seamless integration with the existing structure.
McCarthy collaborated closely with the city and key stakeholders to develop a strategic project management approach that prioritized safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. This collaborative effort enabled the project to be completed two months ahead of schedule and under budget. A phased construction plan, emphasizing careful scheduling and operational adjustments, allowed the garage to remain open throughout construction, minimizing disruptions and preserving parking revenue.
Efficiency was further enhanced through meticulous planning and preassembly of bridge sections, reducing
downtime. The decision to use a single crane for both bridge construction and precast elements significantly lowered costs by eliminating the need for multiple crane mobilizations. Additional costsaving measures included maximizing the use of existing infrastructure and adhering to strict environmental protocols for soil contamination management, preventing delays.
Structural reinforcement of the existing facility was a critical aspect of the expansion. Fiber-reinforced polymer wraps were installed around several columns on Level 1, requiring excavation down to the column footings. Some ramp
columns also needed reinforcement, necessitating the partial disassembly of the concrete masonry unit retaining wall and ramp. These measures preserved the structural integrity and safety of the expanded garage.
The City Parkway Garage expansion represents a strategic investment in the future of Symphony Park’s infrastructure. The project’s total construction cost was $29.7 million, equating to $37,211 per parking stall. These costs reflect the complexities of integrating new levels and constructing the vehicle bridge, underscoring the scale and engineering challenges of this vital urban development.
Locatedtwo blocks from Harvard Yard, the 444-space, seven-level Broadway Garage is essential to the university’s operations and provides convenient parking for local events and community amenities. Because it was built prior to the incorporation of durability provisions in garage structures and had been subjected to harsh New England winters since 1972, structural fortification and façade restoration were required. Following completion of the structural project, Harvard Transportation Services was ready to tackle architectural restoration of the building’s façade to correct issues related to atmospheric staining, open concrete spalls, railing embedment
corrosion, security fencing, and overall appearance. Exterior lighting, signage and wayfinding, and access controls were also addressed. When the project was completed in 2023, the garage looked brand-new.
HONORABLE MENTION
RESTORATION: STRUCTURED PARKING
Concrete façade restoration projects involving surface-mounted galvanized steel railings and elastomeric coatings are common in the industry, and these elements were not unique to this project. However, THP took a proactive approach by addressing the cumulative impact of more than 50 years of urban exposure, which had accelerated concrete carbonation and increased the risk of future corrosion. To mitigate this, corrosion-inhibiting admixtures were incorporated into the repair materials. More notably, a migrating corrosion inhibitor was applied to all restored and cleaned façade surfaces before the elastomeric coating was installed, providing an added layer of protection against long-term deterioration.
During the renovation, the top level of the garage was closed and used by the contractor to secure two 40-foot-long swing stages and move them easily from drop to drop. Because of careful construction phasing, the garage remained open so that reserved parking patrons were never without a space.
June 14-17, 2026
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Baird
Restoration: Surface Parking Facility
OPW 53585: Interstate 480 Parking Lot Modification Project
AWARDED TO: City of Omaha
OWNER: City of Omaha
PRIME CONSULTANTS:
● Site Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Landscape Architecture: Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.
● Geotechnical Engineering: Olsson
● Contractor: NL&L Concrete, Inc.
TOTAL COST: $3,368,429
Judge’s Comments:
“This project was able to rehabilitate existing parking lots and bring them up to environmental and ADA compliance standards while also increasing overall parking capacity and safety. The fact that one lot is fully leased and the other two have monthly waitlists underscores the project’s value and its timing. Overall costs were very reasonable, and sourcing materials locally contributed to both cost savings and sustainability.”
Beneath Interstate 480, three surface parking lots spanning 7.7 acres are strategically located between Omaha’s downtown and NoDo (North of Downtown) neighborhoods and are proximate to the Creighton University campus and the
city’s 24,000-seat sports stadium, Charles Schwab Field. Known as 15th & Chicago, 16th & Chicago, and 17th & Chicago, these lots operate 24/7 and are owned and managed by Park Omaha, the parking and mobility division of the city’s Public Works department. Park Omaha is responsible for generating sufficient revenue to support operations, maintenance, and infrastructure improvements while balancing parking supply and demand.
The lots, which span about one-third of a mile between 15th and 19th streets, were constructed in 1967, a year after I-480 was built, and over time had become underutilized due to their deteriorating condition. Responding to the need for a complete overhaul, Park Omaha’s thoughtfully conceived project scope encompassed demolition of the old lots, installation of new concrete pavement and booths, and significant drainage improvements. Completed in December 2024, the redesigned lots accommodated upgrades for ADA compliance, improving accessibility for all users. Additional overhead and pedestrian level lighting increased safety, and new concrete panels with tested subsurface compaction and plain cement concrete strength testing contributed to durability and sustainability.
The project also improved parking efficiency and increased capacity from 527 to 699 spaces to better serve large events like the College World Series with seamless access and reduced traffic congestion. Park Omaha’s collaboration with event organizers provided tailored parking solutions that promoted convenience and heightened the overall visitor experience.
Phased construction kept portions of the lots open throughout the project, minimizing disruption to users and ensuring continuous revenue generation. A coordinated communication strategy—utilizing digital platforms and on-site signage—kept users informed of changes and closures, resulting in smooth transitions between phases.
Creative design solutions supported project sustainability objectives. The redesigned lots artfully combine stormwater management elements, including four bioretention basins, two swales, and French drains to mitigate environmental impacts and facilitate efficient drainage. French drains reduce long-term operational costs by preventing damage, decreasing maintenance
needs, and extending infrastructure lifespan. Integration of the new system required precise coordination with existing infrastructure, particularly when unexpected, unmarked underground utilities were discovered. To protect the surrounding environment during construction, the team implemented a stormwater pollution prevention program.
The introduction of new pedestrian pathways and attractive landscaping vastly improved the user experience and visual appeal of the lots. While fulfilling functional and environmental goals, restoration of these surface lots serves as a model for sustainable urban development. The reconfiguration optimized parking capacity by almost 25% with a minimal increase in impervious surface materials. The use of local materials supported the regional economy and contributed to cost savings, helping to keep the project within budget.
The success of this $3.36 million project is clear: One lot is leased out in its entirety, and the other two now have waitlists for monthly parking permits.
IPMI Parking & Mobility Conference & Expo Louisville, KY
JULY
JULY 8
Free Member Chat
APO: New Matrix & Criteria Introduction
JULY 9
IPMI Webinar
Leadership in Action: Lessons That Matter
JULY 17
Free Member Chat New Members
JULY 22, 24, 29, & 31
Online, Instructor-Led Learning Parksmart Advisor Training
JULY 29
Parksmart Chat
Introduction & Preview of Next Version
AUGUST
AUGUST 13
Free Virtual Frontline Training
Turning Moments of Failure into a Lifetime of Success
AUGUST 19
Free Member Chat Awards
AUGUST 28
Free Live Meeting
Building Brand & ROI with IPMI
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER 9
Online, Instructor-Led Learning APO Site Reviewer Training—Renewal
SEPTEMBER 10
IPMI Webinar
There’s Not Here for the Parking: Venue Parking That is Not the Main Event
SEPTEMBER 16
Free IPMI Municipal Member Roundtable
Virtual Roundtable is limited to municipal/city members.
SEPTEMBER 18
Free Member Chat PTMP
SEPTEMBER 25*
Free Learning Lab Presented by gtechna
OCTOBER
OCTOBER 8
Free Virtual Frontline Training
Introversion & Extroversion: What’s Your Personality Superpower?
OCTOBER 14
Free IPMI Higher Education Member Roundtable
Virtual Roundtable is limited to higher education members.
OCTOBER 16
Free Member Chat New Members
OCTOBER 21, 23, 28, & 30
Online, Instructor-Led Learning Parksmart Advisor Training
NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER 5
IPMI Webinar
Building Blocks: Understanding the Impacts of Policy on Your Operations, Presented by the IPMI Policy & Legislative Cohort
NOVEMBER 12
Free IPMI Municipal Member Roundtable
Virtual Roundtable is limited to municipal/city members.
NOVEMBER 20
Free Member Chat APO
DECEMBER
DECEMBER 9
Free IPMI Member Roundtable Hosted by the IPMI Planning, Design, & Construction Committee: a discussion on Municipal Event Parking and Curb Operations.
DECEMBER 11
Free Member Chat New Members
DECEMBER 17*
Free Virtual Frontline Training
Real-time GEO Data Mapping: Overcome Workforce Shortages While Boosting Enforcement Productivity.
STATE & REGIONAL CALENDAR
2025 Industry Events and State & Regional Calendar
JUNE 24–26, 2025
New England Parking & Transportation Council (NEPTC) Conference & Trade Show Mashantucket, CT
JULY 9-10
Mid West Parking & Mobility Association (MPMA) Inaugural Conference
Kansas City, MO
SEPTEMBER 17-18
European Parking Association (EPA) Conference & Exhibition Brussels
SEPTEMBER 22–26
Carolinas Parking & Mobility Association (CPMA) Ashville, NC
OCTOBER 1-3
New York State Parking and Transportation Association (NYSTPA) Annual Fall Conference Ithaca, NY
OCTOBER 14-17
Campus Parking and Transportation Association (CPTA) Annual Conference Arlington, TX
OCTOBER 21–23
Pacific Intermountain Parking & Transportation Association (PIPTA) Conference & Expo Eugene, OR
OCTOBER 27–29
Southwest Parking & Transportation Association (SWPTA) Annual Conference Las Vegas, NV
NOVEMBER 3–6
California Mobility and Parking Association (CMPA) Annual Conference & Tradeshow Lake Tahoe, CA
NOVEMBER 17-20, 2025
Florida Parking & Transportation Association (FPTA) Annual Conference and Tradeshow Miami, FL
Stay up to date on industry events and activities! Visit parking-mobility.org/calendar for the latest updates.
