Issuu

INTERNATIONAL PARKING & MOBILITY INSTITUTE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

FUTURE FORWARD

Trends & Technology

INTERNATIONAL PARKING & MOBILITY INSTITUTE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 VOL. 8 / N0. 1

FEATURES

The Past is Prologue

What 2015 Predicted About Parking Tech—And What It Means for the Next Decade By Andrew LaMothe and Sonny Samra, with contributions from members of the IPMI Technology Committee

Electrification and Connectivity

Innovation Through Technology

Keeping Cities Moving By Clay Hine

Digital Strategy Sessions and Digital Twins By Ayse Heckel

Parking as a Bellwether for Technological Change Long overlooked, parking is now at the epicenter of change. By Chris Sherman

The Intelligent Curb

How Artificial Intelligence Is Transforming Urban Mobility By Shannon Hamelin

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FROM THE EDITOR

COLUMNS 3 FROM THE EDITOR It’s Still Us. Only Better. 4 BOARD PERSPECTIVE Welcome to 2026 By Alex Argudin, PTMP; Maria Irshad, PTMP; Marlene Cramer, PTMP; and Gary Means, PTMP

6 INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY Modernizing Campus Parking By Christopher Perry, PTMP

10 PARKING & TRANSPORTATION EQUITY Building Trust and Transparency in Parking Decisions By Chisa Nagai

12 PARKING COMPLIANCE & SAFETY Situational Awareness By Captain Nick Nicholas, PECP

16 ROAD TO PARKSMART Reenvisioning Parksmart By Rachel Yoka, PTMP, LEED AP BD+C

20 ASK THE EXPERTS How can parking and mobility organizations prepare today for the technologies and trends that will define the industry tomorrow? 50 THE PEOPLE OF PARKING How Did I Get Here?

It’s Still Us. Only Better. WE ARE EXCITED TO PRESENT the first Parking & Mobility magazine for the new year, in our new bimonthly format. In the six issues of 2026, we will tackle some of the most important topics facing our industry and bring you the most innovative and forward-thinking content from the brightest minds in our community. In addition to our printed magazine and its digital twin, we will be pushing additional content out to you on our online magazine platform. Why? Because our industry is constantly changing and evolving; it is fluid. And this new format, a mix of six printed issues and a feed of new online content, will allow us to be fluid with it. We will tackle the big-picture topics, as we always have in our magazine issues, and get into the details and nitty-gritty in our online content. To help us bring you all this vital learning, we have added a new talent to our editorial team — please join me in welcoming Courtney Turner, our new managing editor. Courtney will be talking to many of you as we look for new voices, new perspectives, and the foundational content that you need to excel. We are starting the year strong with content that will inspire conversations and introspection. The impacts of electrification and connectivity on mobility, the benefits of digital twins and strategy sessions, parking as a bellwether for technological change, and the impacts of AI at the curb are just some of the critical topics that we examine. So, dive in and then start essential conversations in your organization about how you will be future-forward and continue to reshape our industry. And watch for all the online content to supplement the reading between these pages. Don’t miss a single piece!

By Mark Toro, PTMP

52 LEADERSHIP MOMENT Rage, Ignorance, Excuses, and the Status Quo: Parking Needs a Reckoning

Melissa Rysak, editor rysak@parking-mobility.org

By Nick Stanton

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BOARD PERSPECTIVE

Welcome to 2026 PUBLISHER

From Momentum to Meaningful Progress

Shawn Conrad, CAE

s.conrad@parking-mobility.org EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Melissa Rysak

rysak@parking-mobility.org MANAGING EDITOR

Courtney Turner

turner@parking-mobility.org TECHNICAL EDITOR

Rachel Yoka, PTMP, LEED AP BD+C yoka@parking-mobility.org

ADVERTISING SALES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tina Altman, CEM

taltman@parking-mobility.org PUBLICATION DESIGN

BonoTom Studio

By Alex Argudin, PTMP, Maria Irshad, PTMP, Marlene Cramer, PTMP, and Gary Means, PTMP

S WE REFLECT ON THE PAST YEAR and look ahead to what’s next,

one thing is clear: parking, transportation, and mobility continue to evolve at a remarkable pace. Static systems or singular solutions no longer define our profession. Instead, it is increasingly shaped by adaptability, data, technology, and, most importantly, people.

info@bonotom.com For subscription changes, email editor@parkingmobility.org. Parking & Mobility (ISSN 0896-2324 & USPS 001436) is published bi-monthly by the International Parking & Mobility Institute P.O. Box 3787 Fredericksburg, VA 22402 Email: info@parking-mobility.org Website: parking-mobility.org Send address changes promptly via email to editor@ parking-mobility.org. Interactive electronic version of Parking & Mobility at parking-mobility-magazine.org. Copyright © International Parking & Mobility Institute, 2026. Statements of fact and opinion expressed in articles contained in Parking & Mobility are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent an official expression of policy or opinion on the part of officers or the members of IPMI. Manuscripts, correspondence, articles, product releases, and all contributed materials are welcomed by Parking & Mobility; however, publication is subject to editing, if deemed necessary to conform to standards of publication. The subscription rate is included in IPMI annual dues. Subscription rate for non-members of IPMI is $500 per year (U.S. currency) in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. All other countries, $750.

In 2025, we saw our industry step up to meet complex challenges with creativity and resolve. We embraced innovation not for its own sake, but to simplify operations, improve customer experiences, and better serve our communities. From AI-driven systems and license plate recognition to more integrated, data-informed platforms, we made meaningful progress in modernizing how we work. Just as importantly, many organizations began updating legislative and policy frameworks to keep pace with these advancements; an essential step in ensuring innovation can continue responsibly and sustainably. One of the most defining areas of progress this year was the curb. Long understood as a fixed space for parking, the curb has become one of the most dynamic and contested assets in the public right-of-way. In 2025, we saw growing recognition that today’s curb must serve many users at once: delivery vehicles, ridehailing services, micromobility, cyclists, transit access, and public space needs, often all competing at the same time. What encouraged us most was how our industry responded. We saw stronger use of data analytics to understand real-time curb activity, greater transparency in curbside policies, and the deployment of technologies, such as cameras and AI-enabled tools, to help cities manage demand more effectively. The shift from a static curb to a dynamic, flexible asset represents one of the most significant evolutions our profession has faced, and 2025 marked real headway in that transition. At the same time, we continued navigating the ripple effects of the pandemic. Changing return-to-office patterns, evolving travel behavior, and rising expectations for seamless, technology-driven mobility remained front and center. What stood out in 2025 was how much better our systems began to talk to one another. Improved integration across platforms allowed us to move beyond siloed data and make more informed, strategic decisions, an essential capability in an increasingly complex mobility landscape.

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The challenge ahead isn’t whether technology exists, but how effectively we bring it together into cohesive, equitable systems. Alex Argudin, PTMP MIAMI PARKING AUTHORITY

Looking ahead to 2026, we believe the challenges before us are not about whether technology exists, but how effectively we bring it together. Integrating new tools into cohesive, secure, and equitable systems, particularly in curb management, will require thoughtful planning and collaboration. As smart mobility initiatives expand, we must ensure they remain reliable, sustainable, and accessible to all users, not just the earliest adopters. Policy will continue to play a critical role. Technology often moves quickly, while policy evolves more deliberately. Bridging that gap requires more than funding or procurement; it requires storytelling, trust-building, and compromise. The curb, again, is a prime example. Residents, businesses, delivery providers, cyclists, and transit advocates all bring valid perspectives to how curb space should be used. In 2026, we must continue helping policymakers understand the value of dynamic, data-driven curb management so they are willing to invest political capital in forward-thinking solutions that benefit the broader community. Equally important is the development of our people. As systems, tools, and organizational cultures change, training and professional development must keep pace. One of our most significant challenges and opportunities in 2026 will be ensuring that our workforce is prepared to manage increasingly sophisticated environments. This means investing in education, leadership development, and pathways that make advancement attainable for professionals at every stage of their careers. As we innovate, we must remain mindful that progress should lift communities, not leave them behind. If we could deliver one message on behalf of the IPMI Board, it would be this — thank you. We believe the strength of our industry lies in its people: your leadership, your willingness to innovate, and your commitment to advancing mobility in meaningful ways. The progress we’ve made is a direct result of professionals who are willing to share ideas, test new approaches, and learn from one another. We also believe deeply in the power of engagement. This is a community rich with talent, experience, and perspective, and our collective impact grows when members get involved. Whether through committees, volunteer leadership, sharing case studies, or simply connecting with peers, collaboration remains our greatest asset. The challenges ahead are complex, but they are not insurmountable, especially when tackled together. On a more personal note, we want to acknowledge how inspiring this community truly is. Your resilience, openness to change, and commitment to serving the public good continue to move our industry forward. This work is not always easy, and progress is rarely linear. We encourage you to stay curious, give yourself grace, and remember that the work you do matters. Each improvement, large or small, contributes to safer, more equitable, and more connected communities. As we look toward 2026, we do so with optimism and momentum. The foundation we’ve built together positions us well for the next phase of growth and innovation. We are grateful for your trust in IPMI and for the role you play in shaping the future of parking, transportation, and mobility. We look forward to continuing this journey with you and to coming together in Milwaukee in 2026 for IPMI’s Parking & Mobility Conference & Expo. We’ll share ideas, celebrate progress, and chart the next chapter of our industry’s evolution together. ◆

Chair

Maria Irshad, PTMP CITY OF HOUSTON, TX

Chair-Elect

Marlene Cramer, PTMP CALIFORNIA POLY-TECH STATE UNIVERSITY

Treasurer

Gary Means, PTMP PIVOT PARKING

Past-President

PARKING-MOBILITY-MAGAZINE.ORG / JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2026 / PARKING & MOBILITY 5

INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY

Modernizing Campus Parking Why Digital Parking Management is the Future of University Parking By Christopher Perry, PTMP

“The university is a series of individual entrepreneurs held together by a common grievance about parking.” — Clark Kerr, Chancellor, University of California, Berkeley (1952–58)

ORE THAN HALF A CENTURY LATER, Clark Kerr’s quip still captures the frustration

that parking can cause on university campuses. For students, faculty, staff, and visitors alike, finding a spot can be a daily headache. And for administrators, managing the complex demands of parking remains one of the thorniest operational challenges in higher education. ●

What has changed, however, is the range of tools available to tackle this long-standing problem. Traditional approaches — physical hangtags, stacks of spreadsheets, confusing permit types, and long lines at the parking office — are increasingly out of step with today’s campus community’s expectations. Universities need solutions that are flexible, efficient, and designed to handle the diversity of parking needs across sprawling campuses. Enter cloud-based digital parking management: a smarter, more agile way to oversee one of the most contested resources on campus.

The Complexity of University Parking Campus parking isn’t just a matter of counting stalls. It is a balancing act between groups with very different needs. Faculty and staff often expect priority spaces near offices and classrooms. ● Resident students need long-term parking near their dorms. ● Commuters require access for daily trips, typically to central lots. ● Student athletes may need permits that allow them to move between training centers and residence halls. ●

Event attendees create demand spikes during games, performances, orientations, and graduations.

Trying to serve all of these groups fairly with outdated systems inevitably leads to inefficiencies, errors, and frustration for both university parking administrations and parkers. That’s where a cloudbased digital parking management platform comes in. They are built to handle complexity at scale while keeping the user’s experience front and center.

How Cloud-Based Parking Platforms Transform Campus Operations Digital parking management systems offer universities advantages that extend far beyond simply selling permits online. These benefits include: Online Self-Service Convenience: Instead of lining up at the parking office or mailing checks, students and employees can purchase permits online anytime. Payments are secure, confirmation is instant, and the system is available 24/7. This not only increases compliance and satisfaction but also allows parking staff to focus on problem-solving instead of paperwork. Automated Permit Management: Digital platforms automate issuance, renewal, and tracking, reducing the errors that plague manual systems. This means fewer disputes, fewer mistakes, and less administrative

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burden, especially as institutions grow or add campuses. Real Cost Savings: The hidden costs of physical permits can add up quickly: printing, mailing, reissuing lost hangtags, and handling replacements. Digital systems eliminate most of these expenses and reduce waste, making them a more sustainable choice. Smarter Financial Oversight: Revenue from parking is rarely simple. Universities often split proceeds among departments, auxiliary services, or general funds. Cloud-based systems can assign account codes to different permit types, automatically routing funds where they belong and simplifying audits. Multi-Campus Flexibility: Institutions with multiple campuses gain even greater efficiency. One digital permit can be validated across all sites, while still honoring campus-specific rules. To ensure accuracy, the platform can be configured to use a student or faculty member’s profile information, so that only information relevant to their campus status and needs is presented to them. This reduces confusion, cuts down on duplicate permits, and ensures a smoother experience for faculty and students who travel between locations. Proactive Communication and Compliance: Some platforms now provide real-time alerts. For example, if

a student parks in the wrong zone, they can receive a text notification before a citation is issued. This turns enforcement into education, encouraging compliance without unnecessary penalties and reducing tension between the community and parking services. Streamlined Event Management: Digital systems shine when campuses host significant events. Eventspecific permits can be sold online in advance, easing congestion at entrances and making the experience smoother for visitors. Whether it’s move-in weekend, a football game, or commencement, digital parking platforms give universities tools to handle highdemand days more gracefully.

Case Study: Rutgers University Even campuses with existing, older platforms can benefit from upgrading to a modern system. Rutgers University stands out as an example of how modernizing digital parking management can provide massive benefits. With four campuses across New Jersey, Rutgers recently transitioned to a cloud-based digital parking management system from an outdated platform. Before the switch, Rutgers operated more than 100 distinct permit types, each with its own rules and prices. For obvious reasons, this was a recipe for confusion and inefficiency.

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INNOVATION & ‘TECHNOLOGY

The results of this modernization have been striking: Permit Consolidation: The university reduced the number of permit categories, simplifying choices for users and streamlining oversight for administrators. ● Full Online Access: Students, staff, and guests now buy and manage permits online, drastically cutting traffic at the parking office. ● System-Wide Usability: Digital permits are valid across all campuses, eliminating the need for multiple passes. ● Real-Time Alerts: Parkers receive instant notifications when parked incorrectly, giving them a chance to move before being cited. ● Guest and Event Integration: Digital permits for visitors and event attendees are now available online, improving the overall experience for guests. ● Data-Driven Insights: Real-time data allows administrators to monitor lot utilization, refine pricing, and make evidence-based decisions about future expansion. ● Cultural Change: With more straightforward rules and fewer penalties, compliance is up, and discontent is down. ●

Rutgers’ success illustrates how digital systems can transform what was once a confusing and inefficient system into a smoother, more transparent process that serves the whole community.

Why Other Universities Should Take Note The parking challenges Rutgers faces aren’t unique. Most universities juggle multiple campuses, diverse user groups, and frequent events. Traditional approaches not only waste money but also undermine the campus experience. By moving to digital parking management systems, universities can: Cut administrative overhead by automating routine tasks. ● Improve user satisfaction with easy, digital-first tools. ● Save money by eliminating physical permit costs. ● Enhance sustainability by reducing paper and plastic waste. ● Support data-driven planning with real-time usage information. ● Create a friendlier culture by shifting enforcement from punitive to proactive. ●

In an era when universities are under pressure to modernize operations, reduce costs, and provide better experiences, parking should not be overlooked. When done right, it can serve as a model of digital transformation.

Parking as Part of the Bigger Digital Transformation For thousands of students and employees, parking is the very first interaction they have with the university each day. A frustrating parking experience can sour that experience before classes or work even begin. But digital parking management can turn that experience around. By making parking more straightforward, more predictable, and more transparent, universities can foster goodwill and reduce one of the most common sources of complaints. Moreover, because these systems are cloudbased, they integrate seamlessly with other campus technologies, including payment systems, campus apps, and enforcement tools—this positions parking as part of the broader digital ecosystem rather than a siloed, outdated service. Clark Kerr may have been right that parking has long been the “common grievance” uniting universities, but thanks to modern technology, that need no longer be the case. Cloud-based parking management platforms offer universities an opportunity to address one of their most persistent headaches. They save money, reduce waste, streamline operations, and, most importantly, deliver a better experience for students, staff, and visitors. At Rutgers and other forward-thinking institutions, the benefits are already apparent. Now it’s time for more universities to follow suit, turning an age-old problem into an opportunity for digital transformation and campus-wide improvement. ◆ CHRISTOPHER PERRY, PTMP, is Senior Vice President, National Sales and Operations, for Parking Base TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE and a member of the IPMI MEMBER Tech Committee. He can be reached at chris.perry@parkingbase.com.

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PARKING & TRANSPORTATION EQUITY

Building Trust and Transparency in Parking Decisions By Chisa Nagai

EW TOPICS SPARK AS MUCH DEBATE in a community as parking. Parking policy

affects nearly everyone, influencing how residents live, businesses operate, employees commute, and visitors experience an area. Since parking decisions influence daily routines and access to shared spaces, even small changes can feel significant, and oftentimes personal. Building trust and communicating transparently helps ensure that new policies are understood, accepted, and ultimately successful.

At its core, transparent parking management means that there should be no surprises. When people understand why parking policies are changing and how they will be affected, the result is stronger public support, smoother implementation, and better long-term outcomes for the community. Whether a municipality or agency is adjusting rates, introducing new time limits, or launching a digital permit management system, communication should begin long before any changes take effect. Providing ample notice gives community members time to prepare and ask questions. When it comes to enforcing new parking policies, a short “warning period” can help community members adjust as they learn the new system. This approach reduces frustration and demonstrates that the goal is education, not punishment. Reaching every audience requires a thoughtful combination of communication tools. Social media

posts and digital newsletters can reach younger community members and tech-savvy audiences, while printed flyers or mailed notices remain effective for older generations or those who are less engaged online. Frontline staff, such as enforcement officers, can also play a meaningful role by distributing flyers and answering questions directly, reflecting a community-oriented approach to parking enforcement. These personal connections often go a long way in building trust and ensuring the message reaches everyone. Equity should remain at the center of every outreach effort, as not all residents have reliable internet access or feel comfortable using digital platforms. Offering multiple ways to receive information, ranging from online updates, mailed notices, in-person conversations, and community meetings, can help bridge the digital divide. Hosting meetings outside of regular work hours, providing language translation services, and ensuring that venues are accessible make it easier for everyone to participate and share their perspectives. When a municipality or agency is leading a community outreach effort, there should be emphasis on leveraging partnerships with neighborhood associations, including Chambers of Commerce, homeowner associations, and advocacy groups, to further strengthen communication. These networks already have the trust of their communities and can help share accurate information, gather feedback, and identify potential challenges early in the process. A transparent and inclusive outreach process helps ensure that parking decisions reflect the needs of the entire community, not just the most vocal groups.

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Transparent parking management means no surprises. When people understand why policies are changing and how they’ll be affected, trust grows, implementation runs more smoothly, and communities are far more likely to support decisions that improve mobility and shared public spaces.

By prioritizing open communication, accessibility, and equity, municipalities and agencies can shift the perception of parking programs from confusing or punitive to collaborative and community-driven. Ultimately, parking management is about people as much as it is about policy. When residents feel informed and heard, they are more likely to view parking programs as fair, accessible, and aligned with broader goals of improving mobility and quality of

life. Building that trust not only enhances compliance and safety but also contributes to stronger, more connected, and more supportive communities. CHISA NAGAI is an Associate with Dixon Resources Unlimited and a member of IPMI’s Allyship & Equity Committee and Sustainable Mobility Task Force. She can be reached at chisa@dixonresourcesunlimited.com.

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PARKING COMPLIANCE & SAFETY

Situational Awareness A Deep Dive into Presence, Perception, and Practical Prevention By Captain Nick Nicholas, PECP

ARKING & MOBILITY MAGAZINE has launched this column on frontline safety: a

practical, people-first series for everyone who works at the curb, the counter, or the garage, or who regularly interacts with the public. Each installment turns field-tested skills into clear, usable habits that can be trained quickly and applied immediately, with the goal of prevention, professionalism, and getting home safely. This first article focuses on situational awareness — the foundation on which all other safety skills rest. Future columns will build on this base, including de-escalation language, office-side safety and lobby design, wellness strategies that fit real shifts, advanced techniques and vehicle operations, and supervisor tools for coaching safer behavior. This column began after setting a Google Alert for “parking enforcement” to track industry trends. Instead of routine updates, the results repeatedly highlighted assaults on parking professionals across North America: officers shoved, punched, threatened with weapons, or worse. These incidents are not isolated; they form a clear pattern. Noticing sooner is often the difference between de-escalation and injury. Recent examples include assaults on parking

enforcement officers in Toronto and Ottawa, an onduty attack in Newport, Rhode Island, a 70-year-old officer assaulted in Bethany Beach, Delaware, and incidents in Charleston, South Carolina. These cases are signals, not anomalies, and they underscore the need for practical, trainable safety habits.

More Than Just “Pay Attention.” Situational awareness is often reduced to the phrase “pay attention,” but that advice is incomplete. True situational awareness is a system with three connected parts: perception, meaning, and action. First, we gather raw input — what we see, hear, smell, and feel. Next, we comprehend those cues in context. Finally, we act by repositioning, creating space, changing approach, calling for help, or disengaging. Awareness fails when we observe without comprehending, or when we comprehend without acting.

The Color Codes — Practical, Not Performative A shared framework helps teams stay aligned without drifting into fear. The color-code system is simple and effective. On duty, Yellow is the goal. Yellow does not mean paranoia or hypervigilance. It means being present: heads up, hands free, options open. Yellow buys time; time to notice changes in tone, hands disappearing, or distance closing. Keeping hands free preserves options, supports de-escalation, and allows quick movement if needed. The OODA Loop — Observe, Orient, Decide, Act — connects awareness to action. Observe hands, distance, exits, traffic, and bystanders. Orient by

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giving those observations meaning based on time, place, policy, and experience. Decide on a simple, reversible move, then act and reassess. This cycle prevents fixation on devices and reduces overreaction.

Seeing Sooner Most “sudden” incidents are only sudden because attention was too narrow. Extend your gaze about thirty feet ahead, especially near doorways, stairwells, traffic lanes, and the edges of parking structures. Peripheral vision often detects early cues such as a hand dipping into a pocket or a person breaking from a group. Varying routes and approach angles also helps keep awareness sharp. A useful scanning question is: “What is each person’s purpose here?” When behavior does not fit the context, it deserves attention — not judgment, but awareness. Small adjustments in position and distance can buy valuable seconds. Administrative tasks can undermine awareness. Build a “write-scan” rhythm: enter a line or two, then pause for a quick scan. When possible, move to betterlit areas with cleaner egress before typing.

Trust Your Gut Trust your instincts. That internal alarm is your brain recognizing subtle cues. Create space, angle your body toward exits, stand when needed, and reposition early. Mapping high-risk areas converts general vigilance into local intelligence. Nightlife zones, school areas, poorly lit stairwells, blind corners, and weather conditions all shape risk. Periodically walk these areas with a teammate, test exits, and identify environmental fixes or habit changes.

Pre-Assaultive Indicators — The Body Tells the Truth Pre-assaultive indicators often appear in the body before words. Watch hands, jaw tension, breathing changes, closing distance, scanning behavior, voice shifts, and clothing adjustments. Pay attention to objects that could become weapons and to accomplices nearby.

When Substances Shape Behavior Substances and mental distress change risk profiles.

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PARKING COMPLIANCE & SAFETY

Alcohol, stimulants, opioids, and hallucinogens each present differently, but the response remains consistent: more distance, more time, clearer exits, and calm communication. When possible, disengage and request appropriate resources according to policy.

Putting this into Practice

space early, and disengage when risk exceeds control. Pair awareness with dignity, clear policy, and recovery. In future columns, we will build on this foundation with deescalation, safety-focused design, wellness strategies, and supervisor tools. Until then: heads up, hands free, options open — and always follow your agency’s policy and training.

A simple training drill reinforces these concepts. Small teams walk real spaces for five to seven minutes, focusing on look-ahead, purpose scanning, hands and distance, and escape routes. Teams note behaviors that fit or do not fit the setting, environmental factors that affect awareness, and moments when administrative work was paused to scan.

Disclaimer: This column shares general safety concepts and does not replace agency policies, procedures, or training. Strategies are not universally applicable; assess local conditions and adapt to your jurisdiction, facilities, staffing, and agreements. Behavioral descriptions are for situational awareness, not diagnosis or legal advice. When in doubt, choose distance, dignity, and policy compliance.

Putting it all Together Situational awareness is not a slogan; it is a daily practice. Remember the loop: see, comprehend, act. Spend your shift in Yellow, use OODA to make small decisions, create

NICK NICHOLAS, PECP, is a Captain with the City of Seal Beach, CA, Police Department and a member of IPMI’s Policy & Legislative Cohort. He can be reached at nnicholas@sealbeachca.gov.

Position Yourself as a Thought Leader We are building our Parking & Mobility magazine “Ask the Experts” resource list for 2026, and we invite you to join and share your expertise. Our experts will be emailed six times in 2026 to answer a question related to the theme of the monthly magazine edition. Throw your hat in the ring and become a trusted resource for the parking, transportation, and mobility community. Email editor@parking-mobility.org to be added to the Ask the Experts list.

EXPERTS 14 PARKING & MOBILITY / JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2026 / PARKING-MOBILITY-MAGAZINE.ORG

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ROAD TO PARKSMART

Reenvisioning Parksmart Program Updates, Public Comment, and New Pilot By Rachel Yoka, PTMP, LEED AP BD+C

INCE ITS INCEPTION, Parksmart has served as the only third-party rating system

to guide the design and operation of structured parking facilities toward higher performance and sustainability goals. Operating under the Green Business Certification Institute (GBCI), the certification arm of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), Parksmart certifies parking garages1 according to a specific set of criteria and documentation in alignment with the triple bottom line of people, planet, and profit. Working hand in hand with GBCI and USGBC, IPMI has served as the only provider of education to support Parksmart certification2 and has designated trained Parksmart Advisors3 who serve as experts guiding owners and operators through the certification process. As our industry has evolved, so too will the Parksmart program. In 2024, in anticipation of the release of LEEDV5, IPMI and GBCI hosted an expert working group tasked with updating and revising Parksmart to streamline the criteria and align more closely with LEED. With the release of LEEDV54 earlier this year, we issued the next draft of the Parksmart standard for public review and comment by industry professionals.

Our two primary goals for the next version are both straightforward and challenging: To simplify the certification process while maintaining relevant and impactful criteria that document excellence in the planning, design, and operation of parking garages. ● To modernize current criteria in alignment with industry standards and best practices, namely LEEDV5, in addition to creating new Parksmartspecific criteria that take advantage of the opportunities inherent to the building type. ●

Breakdown of Proposed Points by Category Total Possible Points

Percentage

Energy & Atmosphere (Ea)

25%

Materials And Resources (Mr)

18%

Location And Transportation (Lt)

15%

Parksmart Specific

11%

Sustainable Sites (Ss)

Indoor Environmental Quality (Eq)

Project Priorities

Water Efficiency (We)

Integrative Process, Planning, And Assessments (Ip)

Total

110

100%

SPONSORED CONTENT

The Past is Prologue What 2015 Predicted About Parking Tech—And What It Means for the Next Decade By Andrew LaMothe and Sonny Samra, with contributions from members of the IPMI Technology Committee

THE PAST IS

PROLOGUE

F YOU REWIND THE CLOCK TO 2015, the parking industry was buzzing with

optimism. Mobile payments were going mainstream, license plate recognition was breaking out of pilot programs, and everyone was suddenly talking about “the Internet of Things.” For those of us in the trenches, it felt like the start of a new era; one where data would finally connect the dots between enforcement, payments, mobility, and user experience.

And to be fair, we weren’t entirely wrong. We just didn’t realize how long the journey would take, or how many detours we’d hit along the way. Because if the last decade has taught us anything, it’s that Government Technology (GovTech) is the tortoise, not the hare. Progress happens, but not in a straight line. As we look ahead to 2035, it’s worth reflecting on what those early predictions got right, what missed the mark, and most importantly, how cities, private operators, and universities can plan for the future that’s finally starting to arrive.

2015: The Age of “Smart” Everything Back in 2015, “smart” was the adjective of the year. Smart cities, smart meters, smart cars; if it plugged in, connected, or blinked, someone called it smart.

The key trends shaping the industry at the time were remarkably clear-eyed: The shift from cash to digital payments (thank you, credit cards, PayPal, and mobile apps). ● The rise of license plate recognition (LPR) as the enforcement backbone. ● The emergence of virtual permits and digital credentials. ● IoT connectivity linking devices and data across platforms. ● A budding interest in sustainability, mostly with LEDs and a few EV chargers. ●

These predictions were less about disruption and more about digitization. We were moving from the analog to the connected age, laying the foundation for what we now call “frictionless parking.”

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TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE

What 2015 Predicted About Parking Tech— And What It Means for the Next Decade By Andrew LaMothe and Sonny Samra, with contributions from members of the IPMI Technology Committee

But here’s the thing: while the vision was right, the implementation wasn’t immediate. It turns out that replacing meters is easy; replacing mindsets is hard.

2025: The Connected Reality (Mostly) Fast forward ten years, and many of those 2015 ideas are now everyday realities. Mobile payments are nearly universal. Virtual permitting is the norm. Cloud-based systems manage revenue and uptime. And while near-field communication (NFC) never quite took off the way we imagined, QR codes quietly became the workhorse of the industry. Frictionless parking, a term that once sounded like science fiction, is now mainstream vocabulary. The pandemic, for all its challenges, fast-tracked user acceptance of contactless everything. But even as gates remain (and yes, they will), the degree of “friction” is shrinking. License plate recognition has matured dramatically, powered by AI and better optics. Enforcement has become smarter, not tougher. And cities are beginning to use LPR data as a policy tool, not just a compliance hammer. The result? More insight into who parks where, for how long, and at what cost.

And then there’s data. In 2015, we talked about “Big Data” like it was magic. Today, we’re realizing the trick isn’t how much data you have; it’s whether your systems can actually talk to each other for a holistic view. That’s where open data standards and APIs are finally starting to make good on their promise.

What We Got Right (And Where We Whiffed) We nailed the trajectory from physical to digital to connected. This was inevitable as seen with other sectors and industries. ● We underestimated the lag between technological capability and institutional readiness. Innovation moves fast; procurement does not – parking is a unique industry. ● We didn’t fully anticipate the rise of mobility convergence. Parking doesn’t exist in isolation anymore. It’s part of a larger urban fabric that includes TNCs, e-commerce deliveries, micromobility, and public transit. ● We probably overestimated how quickly the “smart city” would become self-aware. Turns out, cities can be smart on paper but still need time, funds, and staff capacity to bring that intelligence to life. ●

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THE PAST IS PROLOGUE

But progress is real. We’ve gone from data silos to dashboards, from fixed pricing to dynamic models, from “find a space” to “manage the curb.” The tools have arrived; the question is what we do with them next.

2035: The Next Decade of Transformation The next ten years won’t be defined by new gadgets as much as new integration, where all the individual parts finally start playing in sync; the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Here’s where we see the biggest shifts coming:

1. Digital Twins and Predictive Planning

Cities are moving from reactive management to simulated strategy. Digital twin models (virtual replicas of parking and curb infrastructure) will allow planners to test policy changes before they are deployed. Imagine being able to predict the impact of a new residential permit zone or delivery curb in real time before putting up a single sign. Not every city will get there at once (or afford it), but the early adopters will set a new standard for how we manage urban space before the early majority and then the late majority follow suit.

2. Autonomous and Self-Repositioning Vehicles

Autonomous vehicles may not be dominating the streets by 2030, but they’ll certainly be finding their own parking spaces.

Controlled environments - university campuses, private garages, fleet depots - will be the proving grounds for self-parking and repositioning systems, allowing them to proliferate in all environments. For operators, that means planning facilities with machine logic in mind: narrower aisles, integrated sensors, and AI coordination. The payoff ? Denser, safer, and more efficient facilities.

3. Universal Dynamic Pricing (Done Right)

Dynamic pricing isn’t new, but true granular, real-time pricing will finally hit critical mass. Think of it as the Uber-ification of curb management, adjusting rates block-by-block and minute-byminute based on demand, congestion, or even air quality. The challenge won’t be technology; it’ll be politics. Cities will need transparent communication, equity safeguards, and public trust to avoid the “cash grab” narrative.

4. AR Wayfinding and the User Experience Revolution

Augmented reality may sound gimmicky until you use it. Whether through a windshield overlay or smartphone app, AR will help drivers visualize available spaces, EV chargers, and rates in real time. For private operators and campuses, this isn’t just convenience. It’s brand differentiation. As parking becomes commoditized, experience becomes the differentiator.

Whether through a windshield overlay or smartphone app, AR will help drivers visualize available spaces, EV chargers, and rates in real time.

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5. Interoperability and Data Standards: The Unsexy Backbone

reporting; it’s a competitive advantage. By leveraging predictive analytics, operators can forecast demand, fine-tune staffing, and The future depends on data standards like CDS (Curb Data adjust pricing before problems arise. Expanding partnerships Specification), APDS (Alliance for Parking Data Standards), and with EV providers, delivery fleets, and TNCs will also be key MDS (Mobility Data Specification). Without common languages, to unlocking new revenue streams and positioning parking we’re stuck in integration purgatory. assets as true mobility hubs. And as the industry becomes more It’s not glamorous work, but interoperability is what makes digitized, customer experience will be the ultimate differentiator. everything else function; dynamic pricing, digital twins, AV Frictionless entry, transparent pricing, and responsive coordination, you name it. Cities that embrace open standards now communication will matter more than the technology itself. will be miles ahead by 2035. Universities, meanwhile, occupy a unique position as both operators and innovators. Their campuses offer the perfect Challenges That Aren’t Going Away proving ground for next-generation mobility technologies, from We’ve all heard this one before: the technology is ready, the funding autonomous vehicle integration and AR wayfinding to dynamic isn’t. By 2035, that’ll still be true. pricing pilots. Aligning parking strategies Infrastructure inertia, limited with broader sustainability and climate capital, and policy drag will continue to goals will be critical, reframing parking Infrastructure inertia, limited shape how quickly cities can implement policy as part of the university’s capital, and policy drag will emerging systems. But so will equity, environmental commitment rather than privacy, and security concerns. As continue to shape how quickly a revenue necessity. Finally, the most sensors become ubiquitous and vehicles forward-thinking universities will invest turn into data hubs on wheels, the cities can implement emerging in data fluency among their teams. Staff public will (rightly) demand stronger who understand not just how to collect systems. But so will equity, guardrails around who owns, stores, and data but how to interpret and act on it uses their information. privacy, and security concerns. will be the ones who turn insight into real We also can’t ignore the political operational and environmental impact. reality of curb management. Dynamic pricing and automation may improve efficiency, but if residents The Road Ahead perceive them as unfair or inaccessible, adoption will stall. Parking has come a long way from coin meters and paper Technology can’t fix public perception on its own - that requires permits. The next chapter isn’t just about digitization; it’s about communication, transparency, and empathy. orchestration. By 2035, we’ll see a shift from smart parking to intelligent What Cities, Operators, and Universities mobility ecosystems that anticipate demand, balance equity, and Should Do Next align with broader sustainability goals. Technology is converging; If you’re managing a parking program today, the choices you the question is whether our institutions, budgets, and policies can make are already shaping the next decade. For cities, that means keep pace. ◆ thinking long-term and building systems that can scale and evolve instead of chasing every new technology trend that comes along. ANDREW LAMOTHE is Vice President of Business The smart move is to invest in adaptable infrastructure and Development at IPS Group and a member of the IPMI Technology Committee. He can be reached at andrew. commit early to open data frameworks, setting the foundation lamothe@ipsgroup.com. for interoperability and avoiding the costly trap of technical debt later. At the same time, cities must balance innovation with equity, ensuring that the benefits of new technologies, whether in pricing, SONNY SAMRA is Chief Revenue Officer at Cleverciti enforcement, or user convenience, reach every corner of the and a member of the IPMI Technology Committee. He can community. be reached at sonny.samra@cleverciti.com. Private operators face a different but equally transformative challenge. The data they collect every day is no longer just for

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Electrification and Connectivity Keeping Cities Moving By Clay Hine

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Electrification Keeping Cities Moving By Clay Hine

F THERE IS ONE CLEAR TREND IN MOBILITY, it is electrification. The transition away from the internal combustion engine to electric vehicles (EVs) is just one part of this trend. Emerging trends like sustainable transportation, including micromobility and e-mobility are reshaping how we move and where we park. Both are leading to changes in parking and infrastructure that demand novel embedded systems solutions combined with connectivity technologies. Smart parking systems are also an area where electrification and connectivity converge, specifically in smart charging stations, parking spaces, and dynamic parking pricing. The Growth of Micromobility and E-mobility Micromobility and e-mobility technologies encompass a variety of personal transportation needs and include products such as electric scooters (e-scooters), share bikes, and electric bikes (e-bikes) with varying levels of power assistance. Some e-bikes operate at low speeds with a small motor intended to help the rider climb steep hills. Others use more powerful motors to function as a faster mode of transport where the rider can help recharge the batteries and gain additional speed by pedaling. Both designs fit very well with a short-term rental model that makes them effective players in “last mile” transport that helps ease commuting and tourism. Rentable e-bikes and e-scooters make it faster, cheaper, healthier, more convenient, and more efficient for people to travel the last part of a journey. These solutions also reduce the need for cars and buses, which reduces both traffic congestion and the overall carbon footprint. Analysts see micromobility as a major growth market thanks to a combination of government initiatives, suppliers embracing the rental business model, and acceptance by the public. A report by Market Research Future forecasts the global micromobility market will grow from $114 billion in 2024 to $303 billion by 2032 at a compound annual growth rate of 13%.

Connectivity

and

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ELECTRIFICATION AND CONNECTIVITY

By reliably and securely linking to smartphones, riders can use an app to locate and identify bikes nearby and unlock the nearest, most suitable share bikes, e-bikes, or e-scooters.

Connectivity at the Core There are several components to making micromobility work for as many users as possible. One is wireless connectivity. Another is embedded intelligence coupled with a high level of security to ensure financial transactions are carried out safely and to ensure that unauthorized users cannot use vehicles. One of the most important elements of wireless connectivity is support for short-range transmissions, using standard protocols like Bluetooth Low Energy (LE). This enables efficient communication between smartphones and the vehicle, supporting transactions that will let a user pay and unlock or lock the machine. The use of Bluetooth LE to communicate with smartphones has other important advantages. By reliably and securely linking to smartphones, riders can use an app to locate and identify bikes nearby and unlock the nearest, most suitable share bikes, e-bikes or e-scooters. Riders can also take advantage of value-added features, such as the ability to check the status of the vehicle and find a parking space at their destination. Additionally, the technology could compare the status of the charge available in a vehicle

to the charge needed for the expected journey and confirm if there was adequate charge available. Bluetooth LE is not the only connectivity choice for these systems. To support service management, systems may also use cellular communications to relay the geographic position and status of each of the e-bikes so that they do not have to rely on users’ smartphone apps to provide updates.

Innovation in EV Charging Infrastructure The ability to maintain constant contact with service points is how wireless connectivity has become part of the EV infrastructure. Cities want to encourage the use of EVs instead of conventional vehicles in city centers to help reduce carbon emissions, and EVs are reshaping how we park and move through cities. One innovative approach city planners are taking to increase the number of charging points is to integrate them into smart streetlamps and parking spaces. For example, in the United States, the integration of EV charging stations into existing street infrastructure is gaining momentum. Los Angeles leads this

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initiative, having installed approximately 600 streetlight-connected EV chargers since 2022. By deploying charging units in lampposts and other street furniture, these places can encourage EV drivers to bring their vehicles and park up, possibly while they take a rented e-bike to their preferred destination. Furthermore, because charging point access has become a significant barrier to adoption, the conversion of streetlamps into charging stations will aid the EV rollout.

Smart Parking and Charging Systems Cellular, or similar wide-area low-power wireless connectivity, lets these smart charging and parking stations report their status and availability, which are then relayed to drivers’ navigation apps. This level of data provides up-todate information that avoids the need for vehicles to drive around congested city streets just to look for an available charging point or parking space. More detailed status messages delivered to central management will inform them of disruptions or issues that need a maintenance response. By integrating Bluetooth LE and NearField Communications (NFC), chargingpoint users can authorize themselves so that charging can begin. The charging point can then measure the EV’s battery state and estimate how long it will take to reach the charge the user wants. Cellular IoT communications supplement

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ELECTRIFICATION AND CONNECTIVITY

communications, updating the user remotely once the EV reaches its target charge state. Wireless System-on-Chips (SoCs) embedded in parking sensors and meters manage data from occupancy detectors, process transactions securely, and ensure low-power operation for long-term deployment. These technologies not only streamline the parking experience for EV users but also support broader smart city goals by reducing congestion and improving infrastructure efficiency. Smart parking barriers that protect parking spaces and charging stations designated for use by EVs are another application that benefit from wireless SoCs. Barriers incorporate SoCs providing Bluetooth LE connectivity between the driver’s Bluetooth smartphone, as well as between adjacent barriers and a gateway. The barrier-to-barrier connectivity allows a barrier that is in RF range of the driver’s smartphone to instruct an out-of-range barrier to open if the space it protects is the driver’s preference.

There are solutions to these problems. Service providers and vehicle manufacturers are adopting sensors, cameras, and machine learning to help support users. Bolt’s eScooter, for example, employs sensors to detect accidents, falls, sharp braking, and unsafe riding patterns, such as tandem riding. The e-scooter can generate audio and visual warnings for riders, as well as notifying the support team for serious incidents. Micromobility innovators can take advantage of location services not just to track vehicles when parked but to implement advanced features such as detecting when users illegally ride on a sidewalk. Similarly, cameras and ML models can anticipate potential collisions and slow the e-bike or e-scooter down to prevent an accident without interfering with the ride at other times. In EV chargers, ML can automatically determine the best charging profile based on charging state and user requests, such as the amount of time they expect the car to be parked there.

Delving Into Dynamic Pricing

Wireless System-on-Chips (SoCs) embedded in parking sensors and meters manage data from occupancy detectors, process transactions securely, and ensure low-power operation for long-term deployment. Challenges and Solutions in E-mobility deployment The silicon that goes into both fixed and mobile systems requires support for wireless connectivity. But that is not the only requirement. Processing performance is another growing requirement. This helps deal with some of the usability challenges that e-mobility systems face. Service providers need to consider issues such as urban clutter when e-bikes are parked inappropriately, the overall lifespans of the vehicles themselves and the potential for theft and vandalism. There are other concerns, such as safety and comfort, because users may be unfamiliar with local conditions, as well as the e-bike features themselves.

Connectivity and SoC technologies also enable dynamic pricing models. Integrating advanced SoCs means bikes and vehicles can monitor and process real-time data from various sources such as GPS, traffic conditions, vehicle usage patterns, and even driver/ rider behavior. This connectivity allows automakers and service providers to implement dynamic pricing strategies for services including parking, tolls, insurance, EV charging, and ridesharing. For example, pricing could be adjusted based on how well a vehicle has been driven or bike has been ridden. If it has been ridden appropriately, then the rider might be rewarded with refund for good riding. In another example, price of parking could be adjusted depending on demand, based on monitoring the number of vehicles in the area and their specific locations.

Conclusion It’s clear to see that connectivity and intelligent embedded design are shaping the future of urban mobility, and these technologies are critical to scaling sustainable EV transportation and e-mobility. The latest SoCs combine high-speed Arm-based processing cores with cryptography acceleration, security features and direct support for low-power wireless connectivity. What the solutions built around such SoCs will look like are down to the imagination of the developer, but they will extend micromobility to a wider population. The result will be cleaner, quieter, safer and more accessible cities. ◆ CLAY HINE is the Business Development Manager at Nordic Semiconductor ASA. He can be reached at clay. hine@nordicsemi.com.

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Innovation Through Technology Digital Strategy Sessions and Digital Twins By Ayse Heckel

Innovation Technology through By Ayse Heckel

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Digital Strategy Sessions and Digital Twins

N THE PARKING AND MOBILITY WORLD,

technology is no longer a garnish - it is the dominant element shaping design, operations, and long-term strategy. From layout efficiencies to operational data flows and post-occupancy performance, technology is redefining what a modern facility can achieve. From CAD to Data Rich Building Information Models (BIM) 30 years ago, the parking-design revolution was driven by computer-aided design (CAD), which replaced hand drawings and enabled basic 3-D modeling. Engineers and architects embraced CAD for linework, sections, elevations, and simple 3-D models. When it was introduced, CAD was a gamechanger, but now its capabilities seem almost quaint. Today, design teams are creating data rich models expanding upon the typical construction data to include live sensor information, asset analytics, and operational feedback loops. Designers engage early to recommend technologies that drive operational efficiencies, integrating systems rather than layering them on. Ramp geometries, sensor locations, lighting, and signage are now planned in concert, ensuring that processes and technology are integrated from day one. Every system — human workflow, controls, analytics, and asset management — must communicate seamlessly. Viewing a parking facility as a system rather than a collection of spaces reveals new opportunities for efficiency. Technology allows optimization of ramp geometry, structural grids, and circulation patterns, reducing wasted space and improving flow as well as saving on construction and maintenance costs. Early integration of EV infrastructure ensures smooth expansion, while planning for autonomous or automated parking systems further increases utilization. Lighting, security surveillance, and wayfinding can be tied to occupancy sensors and data systems to enhance throughput, safety, and user experience. Once operational, real-time occupancy sensors and dynamic signage reduce congestion, and data-driven traffic management enables adaptation to peak demand. Predictive maintenance minimizes downtime, and energy usage can be optimized by connecting lighting, ventilation, and charging systems through building-management software. What sets a great facility apart is unified data architecture. Integrating occupancy, EV charging, access control, energy, and maintenance into a common platform allows owners to make smarter operational and financial decisions. Clear documentation, interoperability, and defined workflows ensure that issues are addressed efficiently, while performance data creates feedback loops that inform future design and current operations.

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INNOVATION THROUGH TECHNOLOGY

The Power of 3-D Modeling & Digital Twins Modern parking design increasingly relies on BIM and digital twins. Designers now produce detailed representations of structural elements, site utilities, lighting, signage, and EV charging locations, simulating circulation and testing subsystems before construction. The result is not just a garage, but an intelligent, interconnected facility. After construction, a digital twin mirrors the real facility, continuously exchanging data from sensors and connected devices. Operators can monitor performance, analyze energy use, detect equipment issues, and assess traffic and occupancy patterns. The twin becomes a management tool for testing operational changes, improving circulation, and predicting maintenance needs. Digital twins also enable optimized management, precise retrofits, and risk management. Structural loads, circulation changes, energy usage, and safety scenarios can be simulated before

real-world implementation, ensuring cost savings via better planning and reduced risk. Data collected from the twin informs future renovations, revealing where circulation, signage, EV chargers, and lighting systems perform best and where adjustments are needed. Many teams now begin projects with Digital Strategy Sessions, bringing together owners, operators, engineers, technology vendors, and staff to align technology strategy with design goals. These sessions define operational objectives, map existing systems, plan data architecture, and identify opportunities for technology solutions. Emphasis on interoperability, efficiency, and data standards ensures seamless future upgrades, while documenting workflows clarifies the solution roadmap. Early strategic alignment prevents common pitfalls where systems are added late, data remains siloed, or staff are unprepared to manage complex integrations. A shared framework ensures that the facility is as intelligent in practice as it is in design.

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Case Study: ECRC Regional Transportation Management Facility One powerful example of technologydriven facility design is the recently completed Emerald Coast Regional Council (ECRC) on Florida’s panhandle. ECRC is a state-of-the-art transportation and public safety command center that combines a regional transportationmanagement center (RTMC) and ECRC office facility. This RTMC is the most advanced technology-forward transportation center in the United States, and it boasts the largest traffic management center screen display in Florida. Its modular design provides ultimate flexibility for traffic management and emergency response services. The RTMC’s technology demonstrates real-time scenarios, so during an emergency, public safety officials can virtually place themselves in the middle of an intersection or along a public beach or another monitored area to better understand what’s happening, allowing for quicker more data driven decisions to help manage the emergency. Digital Strategy Sessions played a central role in the design process, allowing the team to collaborate on innovative solutions. Leaning on technology solutions, the team was able to integrate advanced technology vendors, allowing the team to test combinations of technologies in a virtual environment. This approach fostered creative problem-solving and enabled the client to participate meaningfully throughout every phase. The resulting facility features a flexible, modular layout designed to accommodate growth. Its traffic-management display can expand along with other publicsafety systems as needs evolve. Built with resilience in mind, the structure includes hardened infrastructure, generator backup, water storage, and emergency electrical

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allocate zones dynamically for EV charging, valet, event, or shared mobility use, while sensors, wiring, and data networks allow rapid conversion to self-parking facilities, shared-mobility hubs, or micro-fulfillment centers. Performance data supports smarter asset lifecycle planning, optimizing total cost-of-ownership and component selection. Integrating digital twins into both design and operation makes parking structures more sustainable, efficient, and resilient. Given rapid shifts in mobility — EVs, ride-shares, and autonomous vehicles — the digital twin ensures efficient adaptability. Facilities can remain relevant, optimized, and profitable over decades.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Parking Design Technology

Escambia-Santa Rosa Regional Traffic Management Center (TMC) and Emeralds Coast Regional Council (ECRC) Office Facility

connections to support disaster response. Within its command environment, biometric access, integrated ITS data feeds, dynamic displays, and real-time traffic and incident monitoring all operate as part of a unified system. This project demonstrates that the same innovative approaches that are being applied to parking design can also be put to work in designing mobility hubs. The process demonstrated the power of early client involvement, collaborative technology planning, and flexible, future-ready design. It also showed how fully integrating data, systems, and optimized workflows can turn a facility into an intelligent ecosystem rather than a collection of isolated technologies.

Designing for Continuous Optimization & Feedback Technology enables “design once, refine forever.” Invaluable design insights can be provided by digital twins, sensor networks, and analytics that give real-time performance data covering occupancy, queues, EV usage, energy, ramp bottlenecks, lighting, and more. Analysis of operational data informs future updates and projects, providing empirical evidence for circulation, signage placement, sensor density, energy usage, and structural performance under mixed-use conditions. This feedback loop drives continual improvement. Findings are documented, staff are trained in updated procedures, and predictive maintenance schedules are refined. Designers can

Emerging trends will continue to improve and provide additional value in parking and mobility design and operations. Autonomous vehicles will enable narrower bays, steeper ramps, and decrease pedestrian risk. Shared-mobility-ready layouts will accommodate ride-share drop zones, drone and robot logistics, and future conversion of parking levels to storage, office, or retail use. Parking facilities are integral elements of broader mobility ecosystems, connected to transit, traffic management systems, EV networks, and real-time data. Sustainability and resilience are embedded from the start, with strategies for energy management, storm-surge protection, and adaptive use. AI and predictive analytics optimize design, forecast peak usage, detect equipment anomalies, and manage facility maintenance over time. Ultimately, the value of a parking asset extends beyond concrete and steel to its digital foundation. The data infrastructure, analytics capabilities, and operational intelligence drive adaptability and efficiency. Innovation through technology in parking and mobility design is no longer optional, it is imperative. The facilities of 2030 and beyond will be smart, connected mobility assets, designed and built with technology, data, and operations deeply embedded. By engaging design and innovation engineers early, unifying processes and data architectures, connecting systems and stakeholders, and leveraging data rich BIM and digital twins, owners and designers can create parking and mobility infrastructure that is efficient today and easily adaptable tomorrow. ◆ AYSE HECKEL, PE, is an Innovation Engineer with WGI Inc. She can be reached at ayse.heckel@wginc.com.

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Parking as a Bellwether for Technological Change Long overlooked, parking is now at the epicenter of change. By Chris Sherman

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By Chris Sherm

Long overlooked, parking is now at the epicenter of change. The Unexpected Bellwether Parking is emerging as an unlikely bellwether for how technology will transform the physical world. Long overlooked, parking is now at the center of one of the most profound shifts of our time: the fusion of artificial intelligence and everyday infrastructure. As AI and automation advance, the physical world is beginning to mirror the intelligence and personalization we’ve come to expect online. Parking facilities serving airports, universities, offices, mixed-use and large venues, and other locations are quietly becoming test beds for predictive, personalized experiences that anticipate needs before we express them. In this sense, parking isn’t just a place to leave your car; it’s where the next era of the built environment is taking shape. For years, personalization has defined digital experience. Our phones know our preferences; our streaming platforms predict what we’ll enjoy next. But in the physical world, that same level of understanding hasn’t existed. Conversely, the parking industry faces the

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opposite challenge: customer anonymity is the norm, and we often lack any identifying data. Buildings, lots, and city streets have remained largely static, designed for access and transactions, not relationships or recognition. That’s changing fast. The next leap forward in mobility and infrastructure isn’t just about automation; it’s about recognition. A world where your car, your identity, and your preferences are securely understood the moment you enter a space. No tickets, no lines, no need to stop. It’s a transformation that doesn’t just make daily life smoother; it redefines how cities operate, how businesses serve customers, and how people experience the world around them.

A bellwether is something that acts as a leader or indicator, predicting future trends or outcomes, originating from a sheep (wether) wearing a bell to guide the flock.

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PARKING AS A BELLWETHER FOR TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE

Why Parking Matters Parking consumes nearly 15% of urban land in the United States, yet for decades, it’s remained one of the most analog and fragmented systems in modern life: difficult to modernize and, for consumers, frustrating to use. For drivers, that means wasting time circling for spaces, queuing at gates, or fumbling for payment at kiosks. For owners and operators, it means operational complexity, eroding margins, and high labor costs. And the inefficiencies add up: roughly 30% of urban congestion comes from drivers searching for parking, costing U.S. cities an estimated $74 billion annually in lost productivity. These pain points are precisely why parking has become the ideal proving ground for artificial intelligence. Parking touches everyone and it’s everywhere. It blends technology, infrastructure, and

human behavior in a way few other systems do. It’s both universal and uniquely challenging. By tackling this complexity head-on, the industry has ushered in a new way to manage parking and a new model for how AI can work in the physical world. The lessons learned here are now shaping how technology will operate across urban infrastructure.

The Shift from Access to Recognition Historically, the built world has relied on access: swiping a card, scanning a ticket, or entering a code to prove who you are. It’s an approach built on repetition, requiring users to reintroduce themselves to every system, every time. Recognition changes that. Using computer vision and AI, parking systems can now identify vehicles and their registered owners the moment they arrive, automatically facilitating entry, payment, and exit. Barriers literally

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and figuratively disappear, and payment happens invisibly in the background. This shift from access to recognition transforms more than efficiency. It redefines the customer experience. By eliminating small, repetitive frictions such as waiting, checking in, and re-entering information, we give people back something invaluable: time. In practice, this makes the physical world begin to feel as intelligent as the digital one. Just as a streaming platform remembers your preferences, a mobility network can learn when and where you prefer to park, which airport terminal you frequent, or where you typically fuel up on your commute. The result is a smoother experience where technology adapts to us, not the other way around.

Beyond Parking: The Expansion of Intelligent Infrastructure The same technology that revolutionized parking is now fueling a broader shift across the built environment: the Recognition Economy. Here, infrastructure doesn’t simply permit access; it knows who you are, understands what you need, and responds accordingly. It’s a network that anticipates behavior, delivers convenience and connection without requiring screens or devices. Recognition-based systems establish a continuous identity layer that accompanies people and vehicles throughout the physical world. That identity doesn’t end at the garage exit — it continues to the gas station, the EV charger, the drive-thru, or the car wash. Soon, it will follow us into hotels, stadiums, and stores. All locations where experiences will soon be personalized on arrival. This isn’t about layering AI on top of old infrastructure. It’s about reengineering physical systems around recognition, replacing fragmented, repetitive touchpoints with interactions that feel intuitive and connected. Parking has shown that even the most analog environments can evolve into intelligent platforms that make daily life more fluid and personal. For operators, this evolution carries profound business implications. A system that recognizes rather than admits customers can optimize pricing dynamically, improve utilization, and reduce overhead. The parking facility becomes more integrated into the user journey and more relevant as the recognition and personalization of users can be leveraged throughout the consumer’s journey, making it so that real estate assets

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become smarter, more profitable, and more valuable. Cities benefit from reduced congestion and emissions, while customers experience mobility as it should be: effortless.

Parking as a Portal Parking teaches us a fundamental lesson: even the most familiar systems can be reengineered into intelligent, adaptive platforms. What was once a static transaction — pay, park, exit — has become a dynamic relationship between people, vehicles, and the built world. This transformation is about removing friction from the daily routines that shape how we live and move. The physical and digital worlds are converging. AI is no longer confined to data centers or apps; it’s embedding itself in concrete, steel, and asphalt. The parking industry, often dismissed as old-school and unchanging, has become a proving ground for this revolution. It’s demonstrating that the next wave of AI innovation won’t be won in the cloud, but in the complexity of the real world: in garages, on streets, at curbsides, and within cities that are learning to think. ◆ CHRIS SHERMAN is the Chief Commercial Officer of Metropolis. He can be reached at csherman@metropolis.io.

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The Intelligent Curb How Artificial Intelligence Is Transforming Urban Mobility By Shannon Hamelin

The

Intelligent How Artificial Intelligence Is Transforming Urban Mobility

By Shannon Hamelin

If you want to understand how cities work — or how they don’t — look at the curb. Long treated as an afterthought, the curb has become one of the most complex and competitive spaces in modern urban life. It’s where e-commerce deliveries, rideshare pickups, micromobility users, and personal vehicles all intersect. The curb is now the city’s front door for transportation, logistics, and commerce, and it’s quickly becoming one of its most valuable and mismanaged resources. For city leaders, this new reality represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge is obvious: too many users, too little space, and too much congestion. And when not managed effectively, these challenges spread to adjacent roadways, undermining mobility, public safety, and the quality of life. The opportunity lies in using data and technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI), to transform the curb from a bottleneck into a vital urban planning element that supports mobility, safety, and sustainability.

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Curb Why the Curb Matters More Than Ever Curb space has quietly emerged as an essential urban asset. Poorly managed curbs can create ripple effects across a city: delivery vans double-park and block lanes, rideshare cars idle in bike zones, and loading activity spills into travel lanes, slowing buses and increasing emissions. But when managed intelligently, the curb becomes an economic catalyst. It can streamline logistics for businesses, create safer environments for pedestrians and cyclists, and generate new revenue streams that fund public improvements. Well-managed curb policies can also help cities advance their climate goals by reducing unnecessary idling and encouraging the use of shared mobility and public transit. Despite that potential, many municipalities are still working with legacy systems and outdated assumptions. They often lack

the visibility, data, and predictive tools needed to keep pace with modern mobility patterns. That is where AI comes in.

The Advantage of AI in Curb Management Artificial intelligence is not a single technology. It is a collection of advanced tools that allow cities to process data, recognize patterns, and make smarter decisions faster. Properly applied, AI enables cities to move from reactive enforcement to proactive management, anticipating needs before problems occur. For example, AI can forecast how demand for loading zones will change throughout the day, or how ride-hail drop-offs might surge during events. It can help optimize pricing to encourage turnover or identify underutilized spaces that could be repurposed. In short, AI gives city leaders a living, breathing picture of how their curbs are being used—and if they are being used properly.

Clarifying AI in the Marketplace The rapid growth of AI has sparked tremendous innovation, but also some misunderstanding. In today’s marketplace, many technology providers describe their products as “AI-powered,” even when those tools primarily use rules-based automation or data visualization. This can blur the line between true artificial

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THE INTELLIGENT CURB

intelligence and more conventional technologies, making it challenging for cities to assess which solutions genuinely apply AI to deliver smarter outcomes.

Navigating the AI Landscape Cities can make more informed decisions by asking thoughtful questions before committing to new technology investments. Three key considerations include:

1. Is the company genuinely focused on technological innovation? ●

Solutions grounded in authentic AI typically emerge from organizations with demonstrated expertise in software development, data science, and machine learning. Seek indicators such as dedicated R&D, experienced engineering teams, and transparency about how their technology operates and evolves.

2. Does AI deliver measurable strategic value? ●

The real test of AI lies in its impact. Ask how the system contributes to improving efficiency, safety, compliance, sustainability, or revenue—beyond surface-level features.

3. Can the provider clearly connect AI to your specific goals? ●

Even advanced technology must serve clear policy and operational objectives. Evaluate how the system’s predictions, classifications, or automations support your city’s broader strategy and decision-making framework.

Where AI Is Already Making a Difference Cities that have adopted authentic AI tools are seeing measurable progress across several fronts. For instance: Real-Time Situational Awareness Through Computer Vision: AI-powered computer vision allows cities to monitor curb activity continuously and accurately. Using solar-powered, LTEconnected cameras, municipalities can track how spaces are being used, without costly underground infrastructure. Computer vision systems can recognize patterns such as parking duration, loading behavior, or pedestrian flow. This information enables real-time adjustments: reallocating space, adjusting signal timing, or updating digital signage. By understanding the curb minute-to-minute, cities can move from static regulations to adaptive management that reflects actual conditions. ● Automated and Fair Enforcement: AI can transform enforcement from a manual, reactive process into a data-driven, proactive system. By integrating AI with existing curb management platforms, cities can automatically detect violations such as overstays or illegal parking. The system can then issue alerts or citations electronically, reducing labor costs and improving consistency. Over time, enforcement data can reveal trends about where violations are most common or times of day when compliance drops. This feedback loop allows cities to refine policies and enforcement schedules for greater fairness and efficiency. ● Data-Driven Policy and Dynamic Pricing: AI doesn’t just monitor, it guides. By analyzing historical ●

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AI-powered computer vision allows cities to monitor curb activity continuously and accurately. Using solar-powered, LTE-connected cameras, municipalities can track how spaces are being used, without costly underground infrastructure.

and real-time data, AI models can recommend policy adjustments that align with actual demand. For example, they can suggest when to convert loading zones into passenger drop-off areas, or when to introduce dynamic pricing to improve turnover. Such flexibility allows cities to treat the curb as a managed resource rather than a fixed one. Dynamic pricing, informed by AI, can also help balance accessibility and revenue, ensuring that curb space serves both public and economic needs. Perhaps AI’s most powerful application lies in predictive modeling. By simulating potential policy changes, cities can anticipate their effects before implementation. Imagine being able to forecast how a new pricing structure might influence traffic flow, or how converting certain parking areas to delivery zones could impact local businesses. Predictive analytics can model scenarios for congestion, revenue, and emissions, allowing decisionmakers to fine-tune strategies with confidence. This kind of forward-looking capability turns guesswork into governance. It gives cities a scientific basis for decisions that historically relied on observation and intuition.

empowerment. By converting complex data into clear, actionable insight, AI gives city leaders the tools to make smarter, faster, and fairer choices. When cities understand their curbs in real time, they can design systems that work better for everyone: delivery drivers who need short-term access, residents who want safer streets, and local businesses that depend on customer flow. AI also helps cities meet their climate and equity goals by optimizing use of space, reducing idle time, and ensuring that curb access benefits all communities. Ultimately, the intelligent curb is more than technology. It’s about reclaiming one of the city’s most valuable assets for the public good. The next generation of urban mobility will depend on how well we manage the curb. Cities that embrace AI not as a trend but as a strategic tool will gain the agility to keep up with changing transportation modes, new logistics models, and evolving citizen expectations. As a society, we’re entering a period when every square foot of the public right-of-way must work harder. Artificial intelligence gives us the visibility and foresight to make that possible, turning the curb from a source of friction into a platform for smarter, safer, and more sustainable cities. ◆ SHANNON HAMELIN is VP, Products and Operations at Umojo. He can be reached at shamelin@umojo.com.

Building a Smarter, More Human City AI’s real promise isn’t just automation, it’s

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THE PEOPLE OF PARKING

How Did I Get Here? One Man’s Journey from Healthcare to Parking, with a Detour Through Bourbon Country By Mark Toro, PTMP

F SOMEONE HAD TOLD ME 20 YEARS AGO that I’d end up running operations for a parking

authority, I would’ve nodded politely, sipped my coffee, and immediately dialed campus security to remove them from the building.

Because let’s face it: when you’ve spent your life overseeing $85 million healthcare expansions, 100acre senior communities, and state-of-the-art science centers that attract 400,000 visitors a year, the word “parking” feels ... pedestrian. Yet here I am, a career operation professional, born of blueprints, raised on building codes, and seasoned through regulatory fire, sitting proudly as a Deputy Director for the Allentown Parking Authority. And I love it. But the road here? It was anything but straightforward.

From Construction Boots to Skilled Nursing Facilities I started my career like many folks do: with a hammer in one hand and a blueprint in the other. My early days

with the U.S. Navy taught me how to build barracks in the desert and bridges in hostile terrain. Pro tip: if you can pour concrete in Kuwait, you can handle just about any capital project stateside. After the Navy, I put that drive and discipline into healthcare facilities, managing million-squarefoot campuses where the HVAC mattered just as much as the heart monitors. Over two decades, I helped redesign entire communities, oversaw senior living campuses with their own power plants, and even installed bi-polar ionization, UV lighting, and air filtration systems to combat COVID-19 before it was a thing. I knew my stuff. And if you said “RFP” or “Capital Project,” my blood pressure would actually drop from excitement. I was that guy.

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Then Came the Call from the Parking World I still remember the conversation with Mr. Tony Hanna like it was yesterday. “Mark, have you ever considered parking?” At first, I thought they meant personal growth. Maybe a metaphor? “Parking yourself in a new mindset” or something? But no. They meant literal, four-wheeled, asphalt-and-garage parking. I laughed. They didn’t. So, naturally, I said yes.

My First Parking Convention: Welcome to Kentucky Fast-forward to June 2025, where I find myself at the IPMI Conference & Expo in Louisville, Kentucky — the Disneyland of parking, if you will. There were sensors, license plate readers, mobility talks, and more acronyms than a government compliance manual. And then there was bourbon. If you’ve never attended a networking event inside the Kentucky Derby Museum, where parking professionals passionately discuss curb management over mint juleps, you haven’t lived. I learned that jockeys weigh less than my carry-on and that “reverse diagonal parking” is not a yoga move. At one point during a facility tour, I asked a speaker if anyone ever actually reads the 300-page city parking plans. They responded with a straight face, “Only on weekends.”

From Healthcare to Hatchbacks: The Unexpected Similarities Turns out, managing parking isn’t that different from senior living or healthcare centers. You’ve got clients (drivers), highstakes logistics (curbs, citations, events), and a whole lot of infrastructure to maintain. People depend on you, every single day, whether they realize it or not. I still manage a fleet. I still build capital projects. I still deal with public stakeholders, angry customers, and spreadsheets that fight back. But now, I do it while trying to figure out why people insist on backing into every spot like they’re auditioning for Fast & Furious 12: Parallel Panic.

Executive Titles, Unexpected Joys It’s not lost on me that my résumé looks like a bingo card of leadership roles: Director, VP, Executive Director, Deputy

Director. I’ve led everything from maintenance and laundry operations to $77 million science centers with STEAM educational annexes. And believe me, if you can manage a multi-phase, multi-regulatory healthcare construction project during a pandemic, you can absolutely handle anything— including parking citations in a vibrant city on a Friday night. But the truth is, while the titles changed and the industries varied, my mission remained the same: build great teams, solve hard problems, and serve communities. Whether I was designing a new guardhouse or advocating for better parking mobility policies, I’ve always believed in doing things the right way — with heart, hustle, and a really good project plan.

The Final Turn: Proud to Park Here So, how did I get here? By saying yes to new challenges, by trusting that skills transcend sectors, and — let’s be honest — by following the occasional bourbon-fueled instinct in Kentucky. Today, as a certified Parking, Transportation & Mobility Professional (PTMP) I’ve finally found my home. A quirky, oddly wonderful place where curb cuts and car counts matter as much as hospital wings once did. And if you still don’t believe parking can be fulfilling? Come call a horse race at the Derby Museum, play a round of Bingo in a room full of parking execs, and hear someone excitedly explain the benefits of dynamic pricing in municipal lots. Then call me. I’ll save you a spot. ◆

MARK TORO, PTMP, is the Deputy Director of Finance, Community Relations, Maintenance, and Projects for the Allentown Parking Authority. He can be reached at mtoro@ allentownparking.com.

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LEADERSHIP MOMENT

Rage, Ignorance, Excuses, and the Status Quo: Parking Needs a Reckoning Why cities must stop circling the issue and start rethinking the role of parking in public life

By Nick Stanton ET’S START WITH THE OBVIOUS: most people hate parking in cities. They think there’s

never enough of it, that it costs too much, and that it’s just another way for local government to squeeze more money out of them. There’s a loud, deeply held belief, shared by many residents, visitors, and even business owners, that parking should always be free, abundant, and directly in front of wherever they’re going. And if it’s not? Blame the city. It’s a default mindset: “Hey, I live here — shouldn’t parking be free... everywhere?” They pay taxes on their home, their income, their dog license, so naturally, parking feels like it should be part of the city welcome kit. Like, where’s my resident badge and unlimited curb access? In an era ruled by TikTok, trending threads, and armchair experts, it’s easy to fall for the idea that parking is some kind of bottomless, taxpayer-funded amenity — like it magically appears next to your favorite brunch spot just because you have a zip code. But here’s the truth: parking isn’t free. Not to build, not to maintain, not to enforce, and definitely not to

modernize. If a city offers “free” parking, the cost doesn’t vanish. It just gets quietly absorbed elsewhere, often at the expense of public safety, clean streets, infrastructure upgrades, or small business support.

The Trap of Free Parking In many cities, the idea of offering free parking seems like a no-brainer. Remove the apps and meters and the shoppers will come flooding back, right? But here’s what typically happens: employees from nearby businesses grab prime curbside spots early and stay there all day. Turnover drops. Customers can’t find parking near shops. Foot traffic declines. And since the city collects no parking revenue, there’s no funding for the amenities that make downtown attractive: clean sidewalks, safety, lighting, beautification. Eventually, the city is forced to reintroduce paid parking; not because they want to, but because “free” turned out to be anything but. The cost simply shifted onto local businesses, the community, and the city’s ability to reinvest in its own success. Worse, the city now finds itself with an escalating parking mess — congested curbs, frustrated drivers, and zero coordination. And what do they do next? The worst thing imaginable: they double down on enforcement. Out come the citations, the tow trucks, the aggressive signage. Suddenly, enforcement becomes the city’s de facto parking policy. Of course, this backfires. The public gets angry, trust evaporates, and the city finds itself facing a PR nightmare where parking enforcement is now viewed

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IMAGE CREDIT: UCLA — LUSKIN SCHOOL OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS

as a key revenue generator, not a service. Let’s be real: this might have flown in the 1990s, but it does not work anymore.

A Shoup-Backed Reality Check The late, great Donald Shoup, author of The High Cost of Free Parking, has long argued that free parking is anything but free. Cities that underprice or give it away end up subsidizing car use, fueling congestion, and starving local investment. Shoup introduced the concept of Parking Benefit Districts — areas where parking revenue is reinvested directly back into the neighborhood. It’s a simple, powerful idea: turn parking frustration into visible improvements, and give people a clear return on what they pay at the meter. Though Donald Shoup is no longer with us, his work continues to shape the way cities and professionals in this field understand parking. Now it’s our turn to reshape how the public sees it. It’s time to connect the dots between policy, perception, and progress in the most transparent and friendly way possible.

The Disconnect: It’s Every Department, Every City Not long ago, I reached out to the economic development director of a midsize city to discuss how parking technology could support downtown businesses, drive reinvestment, and modernize visitor access. The response? “Economic development generally has nothing to do with parking.” That moment stuck with me. Not because it was shocking, but because it’s so common. This artificial divide between parking and economic development is a missed opportunity. If you care about business growth, public space, downtown vibrancy, and livability, you should absolutely care about parking. When economic development and parking teams work together on policy, pricing, and strategy, they reframe how cities manage access, mobility, and equity. Most importantly, they create a sustainable system for supporting local growth. And growth, after all, is the whole point of economic development. But let’s be clear: this isn’t just an economic development issue. Nearly every department in city

government operates in a silo; protective of its turf, hesitant to collaborate, and often more concerned with preserving autonomy than pursuing aligned outcomes. From transportation to planning to enforcement to finance, the lack of cross-functional collaboration holds cities back from making progress on complex, intersectional problems like parking. It’s time to stop letting internal politics and agency egos get in the way of progress. Parking affects communities in ways most cities ignore until it’s too late, and every department has a stake in getting it right. City councils aren’t off the hook either. Too often, elected officials prioritize appeasing the loudest voices over understanding how their city actually works. Instead of grappling with financial realities or exploring how parking can support economic development and livability, they default to reactive decisions aimed at avoiding political fallout. It’s a dangerous cycle, one that keeps cities stuck and prevents meaningful planning, investment, and progress. Let’s be honest. Technology has come a long way. Letting the fear of change get in the way of progress, convenience, and public benefit isn’t just shortsighted, it’s holding your city back. When elected officials stall innovation just to appease a loud few, they’re not protecting the community, they’re blocking it from cleaner streets, better business, and smarter infrastructure.

But First: A Message to the Public This is the conversation we should all be having — loudly. If you want real change, talk to your elected officials and city leaders. Share this article with your city, your friends, and neighbors. Ask harder questions. Demand policies that drive growth, generate revenue, and actually make your city work better for everyone. Here’s the deal. Your local government isn’t out of reach; it’s rooted in your community. It’s a group project, and yep — you’re in it. The more you put in (think time, money, effort), the better your city turns out. Still want everything free? Cool. Just don’t act surprised when the cracks show — on the curb, in local shops, in how safe and clean your community feels. Pitch in. Or grab some popcorn and watch your city slowly turn to dust. Your move. **That said, let me be clear: Demand change from

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LEADERSHIP MOMENT

your city leaders, council members, and elected officials, not the city staff doing the day-to-day work. Many of these public service professionals show up every day under intense pressure from both the community and political leadership. They work long hours in often thankless roles, and the toll can lead to burnout. These individuals are not the problem; they’re often the ones holding it all together.

modern tools. Even more importantly, a good, easyto-use, and widely recognized mobile app means a happier public — people actually use it, benefit from it, and enjoy the freedom it brings. And as mentioned earlier: everything a city does, it does for its public. Why not also make them happy? The real breakthrough, though, comes when cities stop treating these tools as standalone solutions and start connecting them. By integrating specialized Back To Business: Better Tech, Better technologies into a unified platform, cities can Governance, Happier People ingest and aggregate data across parking, mapping, When a city truly listens to infrastructure, and other its community and embraces assets, all in one intuitive technology as a tool for system. This eliminates the If people see paid parking progress, the results speak need to log into multiple for themselves. Smart parking platforms or manually patch as a punishment, that’s not programs, when implemented together reports from siloed with care and intention, can: vendors. And let’s be honest, a pricing problem — it’s a the idea of a “one-stop shop” ● Improve mobility and is so outdated it might as messaging failure. Parking reduce congestion. well be on a walker. What ● Deliver actionable data for policy is one of the most cities need is a connected, policy and planning. intelligent ecosystem that ● Increase revenue while visible, emotional forms evolves with them, not just a reducing costs. pretty dashboard that looks ● Promote equity and of public policy, and how good in a demo. Instead of accessibility. relying on outdated snapshots cities handle it shapes trust, ● Build public trust through or guesswork, cities gain a transparency and ease of economic vitality, and whether real-time, 360-degree view use. of what’s happening on communities actually believe Today’s parking technology their streets and the ability is more advanced and more to act on it with clarity and their government works. affordable than ever. Cities confidence. can now collect data from a In my line of work, the best range of tools: smart meters, tech pays for itself and then mobile apps, license plate readers, ground sensors, pays dividends back to the people. Instead of shelling and AI-powered camera systems. These technologies out for yet another consultant study that gathers deliver real-time analytics that inform policy, guide dust, cities that adopt modern systems gain real-time investment, and help cities and businesses make datafeedback loops, measurable impact, and agility. That’s driven decisions on everything from traffic flow to not just innovation, it’s good governance. Yes, I’m a enforcement needs. consultant, but I’ll be the first to say that one of the At the same time, mobile payment platforms worst things a city can do is hire a parking consultant have reshaped the parking experience. They offer just to be told what they already know, or worse, to convenience for drivers and lower costs for cities, be told what to do. We can and should do better. As often with no upfront capital investment. For consultants, our role is to support, build, and guide, municipalities, this means faster deployment, fewer leveraging technology and local knowledge, not to hardware headaches, and more equitable access to dictate or control.

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LEADERSHIP MOMENT

The Tools, Tactics, and Mindset Shift Cities Need Now Whether you’re in economic development, transportation, planning, IT, or any other department, the message is the same: parking isn’t just a curbside issue, it’s a citywide opportunity. Here’s your parking strategy starter pack for turning parking into visible, valuable progress: Bring parking into the strategy room. Treat it like a strategic asset, not an afterthought. ● Break the status quo. Add modern technology and stop playing the same old game. ● Tech decisions deserve more than a demo. Not just a new app or a shiny sensor — build a real system. One that plays well with your other tools, tells you what’s actually happening, and turns guesswork into insight. ● Pilot, pilot, pilot. Once you’ve done the homework and a product looks like a good fit — test it. Pilots let you learn fast, adapt quickly, and show your community that you’re not stuck in neutral. ● Leverage real-time data. Use insights from your technology — meters, sensors, cameras, and apps — to guide investments and inform policy. ● Create a smart permitting plan. Use smart permitting technology to simplify access for residents, support local businesses, and reduce administrative friction. A thoughtful, easy-to-use system can transform the way your community interacts with the city. ● Create Parking Benefit Districts. Keep revenue local and reinvest in the neighborhoods it came from. Thank you, Donald Shoup! ● Listen to your Parking Director. If you have a parking director, supervisor, or team, listen to them. Chances are, it’s not a lack of ideas holding things back, it’s that someone else is in the way. ●

And maybe most importantly...

Treat communication like infrastructure... because it is. Too many cities bury policies in PDFs or meeting minutes no one reads. If the public doesn’t know how revenue is used, they’ll assume the worst. Cities must: ● ●

Show results through maps, videos, and real-world updates. ● Connect parking policy directly to local improvements. ●

If people see paid parking as a punishment, that’s not a pricing issue. It’s a messaging failure. Cities that communicate openly and consistently will earn more trust, reduce backlash, and gain the support they need to keep moving forward.

From Circling to Strategy: The Choice Cities Face Parking is one of the most visible, emotional, and impactful forms of public policy today. It shapes how people experience a place: how long they stay, whether they spend money, and whether they come back. The way cities handle parking often reflects how they handle everything. The same breakdowns that stall parking progress — siloed departments, reactive politics, poor communication — show up across housing, infrastructure, and public safety. “If people don’t trust you with a meter, they won’t trust you with a budget.” In today’s hyper-information environment, where the public is more informed (and misinformed) than ever, cities that fail to communicate clearly or meet people where they are do not just slow progress, they open the door to frustration and distrust. The real power of a city doesn’t come from any single department or leader, but from the collective clarity, creativity, and trust of its community. Parking just happens to be one of the most public places where that power, or that failure, is on full display. Cities that treat parking as a modern, intentional, and strategic tool will build stronger economies, safer streets, and more equitable access. They’ll attract more visitors, support thriving businesses, and foster a sense of place that people want to return to. Because parking is really about how we move, how we spend, how we gather, and how we grow. And the cities that choose to ignore this? Well...they’ll still be circling the block. ◆

Act like a modern, transparent service provider. Use plain language and visual storytelling.

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NICK STANTON is Managing Partner for Athena Partners Strategy Group, Inc. He can be reached at nick@athenapsg.com.

IPMI CALENDAR

IPMI Events Calendar 2026 JANUARY

MARCH

MAY

JANUARY 13 Free Member Roundtable

MARCH 11 Webinar

MAY 5 Free Member Roundtable

Higher Education Communicating and Working with Students *Open to members from academic institutions

JANUARY 14 Webinar

Discover Your Leadership Edge

JANUARY 15 Free Member Roundtable

Airports Airport Operators Focus Group *Open to members from airports and those who work in the airport sector

JANUARY 22 Free Member Chat PTMP Chat

FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 3 Online, Instructor-Led Training APO Site Reviewer Training

FEBRUARY 10 Free Member Roundtable

That’s My Spot: When Residents, Businesses, and Schools Fight for the Same Space

FEBRUARY 11 Frontline Fundamentals

From Enforcement to Empowerment: Redefining the Frontline Customer Experience

FEBRUARY 19 Free Member Chat New Member Chat

The Future Is Now: Understand How to Leverage AI in Your Operations

MARCH 17 Free Member Chat

Advertising & Sponsorship Chat

MARCH 19 Free Member Chat

Cities & Municipalities The Role of Parking in a Growing City: Managing New and Old Expectations *Open to members from cities and municipalities

MAY 13 Webinar

APO Chat

Strategic Thinking: Taking Operations to the Next Level

APRIL

JUNE

APRIL 7 Online, Instructor Led Training

JUNE 3 Free Member Chat

2026 Parksmart Advisor Training

APRIL 7 Free Member Roundtable

Higher Education Achieving Operational Excellence: Best Practices for Campus Parking Professionals *Open to members from academic institutions

APRIL 8 Frontline Fundamentals

Conference & Expo First-Timers Chat

JUNE 3 Frontline Fundamentals

Designing Your Career with Intention: Strategies for Sustainable Success

JUNE 14 IPMI Parking & Mobility Conference 2026 IPMI Parking & Mobility Conference & Expo

Smarter Enforcement: Modernizing Operations for Today’s Parking and Mobility Landscape

JUNE 25 Free Member Chat

APRIL 16 Free Member Chat

JUNE 29 Industry Event

New Member Chat

APRIL 21 Online, Instructor-Led Training

Master Your Operations: Protect and Lead Your Organization with Critical Skills

New Member Chats

2026 Call for Volunteers

JUNE 30 Free Member Chat

Industry Chat: How to Respond to the 2027 Call for Articles, Frontlines, and Webinars

APRIL 23 Free Member Chat PTMP Chat

PARKING-MOBILITY-MAGAZINE.ORG / JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2026 / PARKING & MOBILITY 57

IPMI Events Calendar 2026

(continued)

JULY

SEPTEMBER

NOVEMBER

JULY 1 Free Member Roundtable

SEPTEMBER 1 Free Member Roundtable

NOVEMBER 3 Free Member Roundtable

Higher Education Transportation Demand Management (TDM): Behavioral Strategies to Reduce Single-Occupancy Vehicle Use *Open to members from academic institutions

JULY 7 Online, Instructor-Led Training 2026 Parksmart Advisor Training

JULY 8 Webinar

The Full Lot: How Your Leadership Capacity Impacts Team Flow

JULY 16 Free Member Chat APO Chat

AUGUST AUGUST 11 Free Member Chat

Free Webinar: Prepare a Winning Entry for the Awards of Excellence

AUGUST 12 Frontline Fundamentals

Stronger Together: Building Solid, Supportive, and Successful Teams

AUGUST 18 Free Member Chat

Free Webinar: Best Practices for Winning Entries

AUGUST 20 Free Member Chat

Cities & Municipalities Staffing, Recruitment, and Retention: Overcoming Challenges to Build a Great Lasting Team *Open to cities and municipalities

SEPTEMBER 8 Online, Instructor-Led Training APO New Site Reviewer Training

SEPTEMBER 9 Webinar

Leading with Authenticity: The Power of Introverted and Extroverted Leadership

SEPTEMBER 14 Industry Events

Cities & Municipalities Using the Data You Already Have to Improve Operations *Open to cities and municipalities

NOVEMBER 10 Online, Instructor-Led Training

APO Site Reviewer Renewal Training

NOVEMBER 12 Free Member Chat APO Chat

NOVEMBER 18 Webinar

Call for Entries: 2027 Awards Program

Communicating Through Change: Leading Teams and Customers with Clarity and Confidence

SEPTEMBER 15 Free Member Chat

DECEMBER

Advertising & Sponsorship Chat

OCTOBER

DECEMBER 1 Free Member Roundtable

OCTOBER 6 Online, Instructor-Led Training 2026 Parksmart Advisor Training

Higher Education Preparing Your Campus and Team for 2027: Anticipating Trends and Challenges *Open to members from academic institutions

OCTOBER 14 Frontline Fundamentals

DECEMBER 3 Free Member Chat

Ask, Observe, and Improve: The Power of Curiosity on the Frontline

OCTOBER 15 Free Member Chat New Member Chat

New Member Chat

AUGUST 25 Free Member Chat

Industry Chat: How to Respond to the #IPMI2027 Call for Presentations

AUGUST 27 Free Member Chat PTMP Chat

58 PARKING & MOBILITY / JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2026 / PARKING-MOBILITY-MAGAZINE.ORG

PTMP Chat

DECEMBER 9 Frontline Fundamentals

See Something, Do Something: Empowering Frontline Staff to Protect and Enhance Facilities

DECEMBER 10 Free Member Chat New Member Chat

STATE & REGIONAL CALENDAR

Industry Events and State & Regional Calendar 2026 APRIL 27–29

SEPTEMBER 15–18

OCTOBER 20–22

Texas Parking & Transportation Association (TPTA) Annual Conference & Trade Show

Carolinas Parking & Mobility Association (CPMA)

Pacific Intermountain Parking & Transportation Association (PIPTA) Conference & Expo

Greenville, SC

San Antonio. TX

OCTOBER 13–16

MAY 26–29 Parking & Transportation Association of Pennsylvania (PTAP) Annual Conference & Trade Show Bethlehem, PA

Spokane, WA

Mid-Atlantic Parking & Transportation Association (MAPTA) Fall Conference & Trade Show Williamsburg, VA

NOVEMBER 30–DECEMBER 4 Mid-South Transportation & Parking Association (MSTPA) and Florida Parking & Transportation Association (FPTA) Joint Conference & Tradeshow Miramar Beach, FL

Stay up to date on industry events and activities! Visit parking-mobility.org/calendar for the latest updates. PARKING-MOBILITY-MAGAZINE.ORG / JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2026 / PARKING & MOBILITY 59

Where Mobility Meets Brew City Cool. June 14 -17, 2026 Milwaukee, Wisconsin Baird Center

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FUTURE FORWARD: TRENDS & TECHNOLOGY

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026