By Dr. George J. Mclean, PTMP, MPA, DBA
Across the parking and mobility industry, I see leadership undergoing a quiet but significant shift. Traditionally, operational decisions were guided by experience, institutional knowledge, and field observation. While these remain valuable, today’s environment demands something more: evidence-based leadership.
The curb is now one of the most contested and valuable assets in municipal parking. We must move beyond intuition and toward decisions grounded in data, research, and measurable outcomes.
For years, our traditional approach to curb management relied on observation and anecdotal feedback. When a location felt busy or turnover seemed too slow, we reacted to it, letting those moments guide when we sent enforcement and how we judged utilization. But I have come to see that while these insights are useful, they are only part of the picture, a snapshot in a very busy ecosystem.
Today, we have access to integrated data streams that provide a more complete picture of curb activity, including Automotus camera data, License Plate Recognition (LPR), occupancy data, digital payments, and enforcement trends.
Individually, each dataset provides value. Together, they create a comprehensive, evidence-based view of curb performance.
The real shift occurs when these data sources are connected. For example, a corridor analysis may reveal high occupancy, extended dwell times, low payment compliance, and elevated violation rates.
Instead of treating these events as isolated issues, leaders must recognize a system-level problem: misalignment between policy, pricing, and behavior.
This enables more precise interventions, from refining curb regulations to adjusting pricing strategies and improving program enrollment.
As cities invest in smart curb technologies, our role is evolving. We are no longer just managing parking spaces. We are now managing data-driven mobility systems.
Experience still matters. But in today’s environment, it must be reinforced by evidence.
Dr. George J. Mclean, MPA, DBA, PTMP, is the Senior Operations and Data Insights Manager for Miami Parking Authority. George can be reached at gmclean@miamiparking.com.