On April 8, 2025, IPMI higher education sector members joined their cohorts from the British Parking Association (BPA) to compare and contrast higher education parking in North America and Great Britain and what can be learned from the experiences of both.
Moderators included:
IPMI:
Josh Cantor, PTMP, Director of Parking and Transportation, George Mason University
Matt Penney, PTMP, Director of Parking and Transportation Services, Baylor University
BPA:
Rhian Lewis, Travel, Transport, and Parking Services Manager, Cardiff University
Majid Khan, Head of Campus Support Services, University of Leeds
Here are the a few key takeaways from this roundtable:
1. Different Approaches to Student Parking
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UK universities, such as the University of Leeds, typically prohibit student parking during core hours unless for medical or accessibility needs.
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U.S. universities often allow student parking and may treat staff and students equally in terms of permit access.
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This contrast is largely due to differences in campus layout, population density, and transportation culture.
2. License Plate Recognition (LPR) Technology
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U.S. institutions are increasingly using mobile and fixed LPR systems for enforcement.
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UK universities are following suit with ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) systems, though with more recent adoption and ongoing concerns over data privacy and “Big Brother” perceptions.
3. Cultural and Legal Differences in Parking Enforcement
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The UK differentiates enforcement between public and private land, with strict rules governed by organizations like BPA and IPC.
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U.S. enforcement policies vary widely by state and institution, with more autonomy in setting fines and protocols, especially for private universities.
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Both sides are grappling with the challenge of balancing fair enforcement with maintaining good relations with students and staff.
4. Sustainable Transportation is Gaining Ground
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Cardiff University uses limited parking and a “needs-based assessment” to promote sustainable commuting.
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Walking and public transport are growing priorities, with sustainability metrics increasingly influencing university rankings and student decision-making.
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U.S. schools are exploring similar models, though geography and infrastructure can limit options.
5. Financial Pressures Influence Policy
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Both UK and U.S. institutions are feeling financial strain—UK schools from declining international enrollment and U.S. schools from reduced transit usage post-COVID.
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Parking revenue plays a critical role in funding other sustainable transport initiatives.
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There’s a tension between promoting transit and maintaining revenue from parking permits and citations.
Join us for our next FREE member roundtables:
Planning, Design, & Construction Roundtable – May 13, 2025
