Parking Lots

Urbiotica expands its range of parking space detection sensors with the launch of U-Spot IoT for surface installation, a new version of the successful U-Spot M2M and 3.0 parking sensor. This innovation maintains the same reliability and accuracy while offering a faster and simpler installation process. With this new product, Urbiotica addresses market needs and opens new opportunities for integrators and municipalities, enabling parking space detection systems in projects where in-ground sensors were previously unfeasible or uncompetitive. What’s New? U-Spot Surface offers the same technology and reliability as our in-ground sensor but comes with an optimized casing for surface installation. This solution provides: Lower installation costs: Quick deployment without major technical requirements, optimizing time and resources.  Greater flexibility: Can be installed in a variety of environments without drilling. More project opportunities: Access to tenders and sectors where in-ground sensor installation was a limiting factor. Quick Installation Tailored to Each Need The U-Spot Surface has been designed to adapt to different environments and installation requirements: With screws: Urbiotica’s standard method, ensuring maximum stability and vandalism resistance. With adhesive: An ideal option for environments where drilling is not permitted, allowing installation without altering the existing surface. When to Choose U-Spot Surface? The surface version is the best option for environments that require a more agile and cost-effective installation without compromising accuracy: Indoor and off-street parking, where in-ground installation can be more expensive or unnecessary, or when replacing wired systems to eliminate electrical dependencies and reduce maintenance costs. Rooftops and modular structures, where drilling or ground modifications are not allowed. Projects with installation cost constraints, making space detection viable in more locations. Meanwhile, the in-ground version remains the best choice for: Areas with high vandalism risk.  Public spaces with regulations regarding surface elements.  Snow-prone regions, where the sensor is protected from damage by snowplows. Advancing Parking Digitalization The launch of the U-Spot IoT Surface reinforces Urbiotica’s commitment to innovation and continuous improvement in parking management and mobility. With this new version, we expand implementation possibilities and facilitate the deployment of parking guidance systems in more environments. Want more information or to explore its application in your project? Contact our team to discover how the U-Spot Surface can benefit you: info@urbiotica.com About Urbiotica Urbiotica specializes in smart mobility solutions, offering advanced IoT technology for parking management. With a presence in over 50 countries, its mission is to enhance urban efficiency through innovative digital solutions.

In October 2024, I wrote about how the City of Richmond was embarking on a study on a hybrid parking permit model. The key objective was to examine the feasibility and best practices surrounding a hybrid residential/employee parking permit program and examine shared parking opportunities between public and private entities within the parking districts. As urban areas continue to evolve with the removal of parking minimums, so do the challenges, which has led to city officials and residents voicing concerns about the potential negative impacts from this change in zoning parking legislation. Understanding the Challenge Residential parking permit regulations differ among Richmond's five districts because all five districts have unique characteristics, such as permit issuance programs, surrounding land use, opportunities for shared parking, and their unique personalities. Other complexities include: a growing residential population, increased competition for limited spaces, and the future integration of commercial parking needs. Insights from Peer Communities The city contracted with DESMAN to conduct the study. To craft informed recommendations, DESMAN analyzed two peer communities: Columbus, Ohio and Virginia Beach, Virginia. Columbus features a hybrid permit parking model in its Short North District. The fee structure for permits is variable or tiered; for instance, a first employee permit costs $100 annually for one and gradually increases per permit where the tenth is $700. This tiered fee approach to pricing could serve as a guideline for Richmond to help maintain fairness and efficiency. Virginia Beach, on the other hand, presents a monthly permit fee structure at $10 per month, contrasting with Columbus’s annual charges. DESMAN did not recommend implementing a full hybrid permit parking system uniform across all five Richmond districts. However, the study indicated that certain parts of a hybrid permit parking system could be beneficial for some of our residential districts and employees. Possible next steps proposed in the study include: The incorporation of shared parking arrangements, to leverage underutilized spaces, such as those at local churches or libraries during off-peak hours. The establishment of a pilot program incentivizing residents to construct off-street parking pads, alleviating some pressure from on-street spaces. Consider acquiring vacant lots for small permit parking lots, providing more options for parking availability. Pilot a limited number of employee parking permits for businesses to help understand the impacts of a hybrid system. Richmond stands at a crossroads regarding its parking policies, however strategic solutions and learned insights from peer cities do offer a pathway forward. Emphasizing shared resources, innovative pilot programs, and streamlined regulations may lead to a comprehensive solution that accommodates the needs of both residents and businesses, fostering a thriving urban environment for all. Steven Bergin, CAPP, is an Operation Manager for the City of Richmond, Virginia. You can reach Steven at Steven.Bergin@RVA.gov.

ATLANTA, GA – Mercedes-Benz Stadium (MBS), home of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and MLS’s Atlanta United, has announced a new partnership with ParkHub, the leading event parking technology provider in the United States. This collaboration aims to transform the fan experience from the moment tickets are purchased, delivering a streamlined and stress-free parking experience for fans. The partnership, launching February 10, 2025, will leverage ParkHub’s suite of advanced parking technologies, including its flagship reservation products—EventPass, SeasonPass, and CompPass—as well as its cutting-edge Suite platform for real-time operations management. These tools will enable MBS to centralize parking operations, track and report activity, and gain valuable insights to ensure fan satisfaction. ParkHub has also partnered with numerous third-party parking operators, managing 45 nearby sites to provide visitors to MBS even greater access to parking by the venue. The partnership provides fans with pre-bookable parking options tailored to their preferences, such as cost and proximity to the stadium. By offering both on- and-off site-parking, the new systems in place will also help to ease traffic congestion on game days directly around MBS. “Our goal is to deliver a seamless and welcoming experience for every fan who visits Mercedes-Benz Stadium," says Director, Physical Security and Parking, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Eric Young. "Partnering with ParkHub allows us to enhance the parking process, ensuring that this critical first step of a fan’s journey is as smooth and efficient as possible. Their innovative technology and dedication to customer service were key factors in our decision and we look forward to a successful partnership.” This collaboration has been enabled by ParkHub’s recent strategic merger with JustPark, the UK’s leading parking app, supporting 13 million drivers. The merger expanded ParkHub’s capabilities to include prepaid event parking reservations, offering an elevated solution for its sports and entertainment customers seeking a centralized system to manage parking passes and operations under one unified platform. The deal introduces a host of advanced technologies from ParkHub that underscore MBS’s commitment to delivering unparalleled convenience and service to attendees, including: EventPass: A dynamic reservation platform that allows fans to pre-book official stadium parking or nearby third-party options for individual events, ensuring guaranteed parking and eliminating game-day stress. SeasonPass: Digital season-long parking passes with special access tiers for premium ticket holders, offering flexible and seamless transferability. CompPass: A sophisticated digital distribution system for managing parking passes for employees, VIPs, and suite holders. Suite: A comprehensive operations system that provides real-time insights and control over parking inventory, improving operational efficiency and delivering a superior fan experience. “Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a leader in providing innovative fan experiences, and we are honored to play a role in elevating that journey,” said Charley DeBow, SVP of Sales & Strategic Partnerships at ParkHub. “Our technology not only simplifies parking operations but also offers valuable data insights that enhance fan engagement and streamline stadium logistics. By connecting fans with efficient parking solutions, we’re helping MBS deliver a premium experience that reflects their commitment to excellence on and off the field.” Single-event and season parking passes will be available for purchase starting February 10 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium parking website: https://parking.mercedesbenzstadium.com/. For more information please contact: Media Enquiries: Sarah Jackson E: media@justpark.com About ParkHub ParkHub is the leading integrating software, payments, and data insights provider for the North American market. ParkHub solutions include multiple payment options, real-time operational data, robust performance analytics, dynamic pricing, and is the industry leader in seamless integrations with the nation’s renowned ticketing and parking reservation providers. For more information, visit ParkHub.com. About Mercedes-Benz Stadium Opened in August 2017, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a world-class sports and entertainment venue in downtown Atlanta and home to the National Football League’s Atlanta Falcons and Major League Soccer’s Atlanta United. The multi-purpose stadium was named the 2019 Sports Facility of the Year and is host to major sports and entertainment events, including the 3031 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship, 2026 World Cup, the 2018 and 2025 College Football Playoff National Championships, the 2018 MLS Cup, and Super Bowl LIII. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is the first professional sports stadium in North America to achieve LEED Platinum Certification and the first stadium worldwide to achieve TRUE Platinum Certification for zero waste by the United States Green Building Council. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is proud to be collaborating with naming rights partner Mercedes-Benz and thirteen founding partners including Coca-Cola, Equifax, The Home Depot, Novelis, SCANA Energy, Truist, IBM, Georgia Power, American Family Insurance, Global Payments, Ticketmaster, Delta Airlines, and Emory. To learn more about Mercedes-Benz Stadium visit www.mercedesbenzstadium.com.  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Calabasas, CA – Frogparking is thrilled to announce an innovative partnership with The City of Calabasas. Frogparking, a leading provider of smart parking technology, is excited to enhance parking availability and efficiency across the city. This collaboration will introduce a multi-stage implementation of cutting-edge parking sensors, aimed at delivering real-time data and insights to optimize parking infrastructure. The first stage of this partnership involves the pilot installation of 48 state-of-the-art parking sensors and gateways outside City Hall. This initial phase will serve as a testbed to gather and evaluate crucial data on parking demand, utilization, and turnover. By providing real-time updates on parking availability, the pilot aims to improve the parking experience for residents and visitors alike. "We are excited to partner with Frogparking to bring innovative parking solutions to Calabasas. This initiative will not only enhance the parking experience for our residents and visitors but also provide us with essential data to make informed decisions for the future," said Michael Klein, Community Development Director, City of Calabasas. A key aspect of this partnership is the emphasis on data collection and analysis. Frogparking's system will provide the City of Calabasas with valuable insights into parking patterns, demand, and turnover rates. This data will empower city officials to make informed business decisions, optimize parking management strategies, and improve overall urban planning. "Frogparking is proud to collaborate with the City of Calabasas on this future-focused project. Our advanced technology will provide real-time parking information, making it easier for everyone to find parking and helping the city manage its resources more effectively," said Shareena Sandbrook, Chief Executive Officer of Frogparking. About Frogparking Frogparking is a leading provider of parking management technology, offering advanced tech to optimize parking infrastructure and improve urban mobility. With a commitment to innovation, sustainability and excellence, Frogparking delivers real-time data and insights that empower cities to make informed decisions and enhance the parking experience for all users.

Anchorage, AK – EasyPark is excited to announce a new ordinance to improve parking accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Starting December 1, 2024, the ordinance introduces key changes to make Anchorage more inclusive: Free Mobility Parking Permits: Mobility parking permits will now be issued free of charge to qualified individuals, eliminating financial barriers for those in need. Free Street Meter Parking: Individuals with a state-issued disability placard or license plate with parking privileges can park at any street meter for free, with the same benefit of a more extended stay at handicapped designated on-street spaces. Increased Fines for Violations: Fines for unauthorized use of handicapped parking meter spaces will be significantly raised to deter misuse and ensure compliance. “These changes are designed to enhance mobility and accessibility in downtown Anchorage,” said Jeff Read, Parking Director of EasyPark. “By removing costs and ensuring proper enforcement, we’re making Anchorage a city that supports everyone.” EasyPark remains committed to fostering fairness and inclusivity in Anchorage’s parking system, ensuring equitable access for all residents and visitors to the city. About EasyPark EasyPark is your trusted partner for innovative parking mobility services within the Municipality of Anchorage. Operated by the Anchorage Community Development Authority (ACDA), EasyPark provides the "Right Space, Right Place" for downtown Anchorage residents, businesses, and visitors. As a self-funded public corporate authority, ACDA operates independently and does not use taxpayer dollars. This allows EasyPark to manage and maintain over 6,000 parking spaces while reinvesting its resources into creating a more accessible, vibrant, and efficient parking ecosystem. With a focus on convenience, innovation, and community development, EasyPark is committed to delivering seamless parking solutions that enhance mobility and support the growth of Anchorage’s urban center.

EV’s and EV charging stations have been a popular topic of conversation within the parking industry over the course of the last four to five years. That conversation intensified following COVID as Cities and States across the Country felt a migration of folks moving from west coast and northeastern regions where EV’s have shown to be more popular into cities that have been slower to make the switch. States such as Florida and Georgia which had an influx of folks move in post pandemic had to make the switch to help better serve the needs of folks with EV’s at residential buildings and retail parking areas. So how do we balance offering preferred parking spaces to EV owners while at the same time not pushing members of our community that have had access to preferred spaces for years to the side? Offering incentives to those that have decided to “go green” will certainly help a facility obtain a park smart certification but will also cause some pushback from long term members of the community. Newer multifamily parking facilities will push us to install charging stations while at the same time not offering this as a free service, charging the consumer per KW. That certainly helps the developers cover building cost but may also keep stake holders at bay knowing that the option is there but it does not mean we are catering to EV owners. Elvis Reyes, CAPP, is the General Manager for The Car Park. Elvis can be reached at ereyes@thecarpark.com.

We all hear it whether you are a municipal entity or an academic organization like our own. Here at the University of Mississippi’s main campus in Oxford, MS, we manage and maintain just over 17,000 parking spaces. On even the busiest day, we can pull up video feed showing hundreds of spaces or more that parkers are not utilizing, but still, we hear, "There are not enough parking spaces." Is it just that age-old expectation that everyone should be able to park directly outside the building where they work at or attend classes? Is it a rural university problem or do urban universities with few or no parking spaces at all still experience this? Want to see students completely stumped? Try to explain to them that they should park their cars at one of several remote lots on the edge of campus and then take the convenient shuttle bus to a central part of campus that is likely within 500 feet of the building for their classes. They of course bought a commuter parking permit. We can also show them a half-empty commuter parking zone. Except, it is not where they want to park, and the lots close to where they want to be are "full". When we explain that Commuter permits are authorized to park in these remote lots, something breaks inside their minds. Park car, ride bus, get to class on time! Easy right? Apparently not… Harold Robinson, CAPP, is the Assistant Director of Parking and Transportation Systems for The University of Mississippi. Harold can be reached at hdrobins@olemiss.edu.

Incident Command System (ICS), a National Incident Management System (NIMS) component, is the federally accepted standard for the coordinated response and management of planned events and unplanned emergencies.

Creating a stellar parking experience for any large event requires significant planning and a clear vision. In today’s customer-focused climate, doing what was done before is not enough!

This session will take 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.

This session will examine tactics that can be implemented in parking, mobility, and transportation management to address the effects of the homeless crisis on parking operations.

Join the Princeton University team as they showcase how data can drive smarter decisions, ease parking stress, reduce congestion, and ultimately improve the campus experience.