On May 14, 2025,  IPMI hosted a webinar titled A Decade of Parking Technology – Predictions, Progress, and Future Needs.

Summary:

Over the last decade, parking technology has evolved at a faster rate than in any other period of history. The IPMI Technology Committee has been there every step of the way, helping the parking and mobility community navigate through the lightning-fast changes. This session took a retrospective look at the evolution of parking technology by revisiting our past Technology Committee presentations, exploring how various parking technologies were developed, identifying the catalysts that facilitated their adoption, and the barriers that hindered others. It also examined current technologies, discussing what was missing or needed for broader adoption. This session offered a comprehensive understanding of the trends, successes, and challenges in parking technology, offering insights into the future of the industry. 

Presenters included:

Carmen Donnell, PTMP, Managing Director, PayByPhone

Nick Mazzenga, PE, Parking Technology Consultant, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc

 

Here are the a few key takeaways from this webinar:

1. Flexible Design is Essential for Adapting to Changing Needs

Panelists emphasized that future-ready parking facilities must be designed with operational flexibility in mind—allowing for transitions between gated and gateless systems, incorporation of new technologies, and shifting user behavior. This includes thoughtful infrastructure planning such as conduit placement and access control capabilities.

2. Frictionless Parking Adoption is Growing, But Not One-Size-Fits-All

Several participants shared examples of implementing gateless parking systems using LPR and mobile apps. While the approach has advantages—like improved throughput and lower maintenance—its success depends on tailored applications, robust enforcement methods, and a strong communication strategy for users.

3. EV Infrastructure Needs Strategic Investment and Safety Considerations

Electric vehicle charging is increasingly in demand, and jurisdictions are requiring EV-ready spaces. Designers must factor in significant power capacity, charging equipment costs, and fire risk mitigation—especially in enclosed garages. Collaboration with fire departments and designating specific EV charging zones were cited as best practices.

4. Automation and AI Are Promising, But Practicality Varies

Automated and robotic parking systems can improve efficiency and space use, but concerns remain around reliability, user experience, and cost—especially in high-volume or event-driven environments. AI-enhanced systems (e.g., for automated enforcement or vehicle retrieval) are promising but still maturing.

5. Communication and Pilots Drive User Acceptance and Program Success

Whether rolling out frictionless systems, camera enforcement, or smart loading zones, consistent user education and small-scale pilots were highlighted as critical. These approaches help refine systems, uncover user behavior issues, and reduce pushback, ultimately improving adoption and operational success.

View the full webinar in IPMI’s On-Demand Education Library today! Click here to order to watch at your convenience.

Interested in future IPMI Webinars? Click here to view upcoming programs.