Parking & Mobility — May 2024

Accessibility & TRANSPORTATION EQUITY

What is the parking and mobility industry doing to ensure accessible transportation for all?

Sensitivity By Zachary Smith, Xavier Davis, & David Carson Lipscomb

The Winnipeg Parking Authority’s Vehicles for Hire Office By Randy Topolniski, CAPP

By Jason Sutton, CAPP & Matthew Kennedy, CAPP

Equity DDOT’s Signworks Platform Revolutionizes Curbside Management By Ty’on Jones, MPAP

Dr. Greg Hladik, Ph.D.

TRANSPORTATION EQUITY aims to ensure that all community members’ needs are met by the transportation systems available to them.

Under Executive Order 13985 Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities (2021), the term ‘equity’ means the consistent and systematic fair, just, and impartial treatment of all individuals. This includes individuals who belong to underserved communities that have been denied such treatment, such as Black, Latino, Indigenous and Native American persons, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and other persons of color; members of religious minorities; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) persons; persons with disabilities; persons who live in rural areas; and persons otherwise adversely affected by persistent poverty or inequality.

Wow. That is a lot to think about.

Will it be challenging to ensure equity in our parking, mobility, and transportation operations? It will. But that, my friends, is our job. As parking and mobility professionals, leaders, and humans, it is our responsibility to achieve equitable access to affordable, reliable mobility options for all.

Ensuring transportation equity is a federally mandated requirement and a basic sign of respect to all we live and work with. But, more importantly, it is just good business

In this issue, we breach the surface of a very deep pool. We discuss accessibility for all in the work being done by the IPMI Accessibility Working Group; we also address how one major city parking operation is training its teams on basic etiquette and inclusion practices when interacting and working with individuals with disabilities. We hit on a signage program that was built with equity for underserved communities in mind. And we showcase a Canadian parking authority working to bring equity to Indigenous people and those with disabilities.

There is so much work being done in our parking and mobility world to make transportation equity the norm and not the exception—and still, there is so much more that we can do. I hope this issue gets you excited about your organization’s next steps toward equity.

If you are reading this digitally, I hope you are clicking all the way through to read each important piece. If you are reading this in print, as May 2024 is one of our four printed special editions, I hope you love feeling the magazine paper in your hands as much as I do! I miss printed magazines, and I hope that you leave this one on your shelf and reference it often for inspiration. I know it inspired me!

PUBLISHER

Shawn Conrad, CAE s.conrad@parking-mobility.org

EDITOR

Melissa Rysak, CPSM rysak@parking-mobility.org

TECHNICAL EDITOR

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

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Tina Altman taltman@parking-mobility.org

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Copyright © International Parking & Mobility Institute, 2024. Statements of fact and opinion expressed in articles contained if 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.

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IPassing the Torch

By Gary A. Means, CAPP

N JUNE 2024, I will end my two years as chair of the IPMI Board of Directors (the Board). While I still have two more years left on the executive committee as past chair, I can’t help but reflect on my time as chair. It has been an amazing opportunity to experience major challenges, changes, and community-building opportunities.

My first term on the IPMI Board was from 2015 to 2017. In 2017, I was elected by the Board to serve as board treasurer and began what will turn out to be a nine-year period of serving on the executive committee. During the past few years, there have been many challenges and advancements within IPMI. It’s been my honor to observe, learn, and sometimes offer my thoughts or opinions as the Board and staff navigated our way through uncharted waters.

Just before I stepped into the role of treasurer in 2016, the Board approved moving our fiscal year from a July to June fiscal year to an October to September fiscal year. While that may not seem significant considering some of the other challenges we navigated, it’s no easy task to make that kind of change for any organization. Moving the fiscal year dates made total sense as our main event of the year, the Parking & Mobility Conference & Expo, took place right at the end of the fiscal year, causing challenges with reporting and year-end close out. This behind-the-scenes change created a go-forward operational improvement that will allow the board and staff to be more efficient in serving IPMI’s membership.

The next big move during my tenure occurred in 2018 when the IPMI staff and Board approved adding “mobility” to the association name, and the International Parking Institute became IPMI. That meant a lot of logo changes. Today, the idea of

Now imagine being in the final stages of planning “The Big Show” with more than 3,000 members likely in attendance, and suddenly, you are faced with canceling, rescheduling, or ultimately going virtual. IPMI’s staff pushed through those challenges and navigated huge decisions like the pros they are, and ultimately, we got through it together. Today, our organization is in strong financial shape because of lots of hard work, creativity, and having really smart people around the table.

While IPMI had always advocated for equality, 2020 was also the year that we put together the first of many formal conversations on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Born from both real-life experiences and observations of the challenges of many of our minority friends, along with hours of one-on-one conversations, we realized that our industry needed to make

some changes and create opportunities for all. On August 20, 2020, Richard B. Easley, CAPP, Keith Hutchings, Kim E. Jackson, CAPP, Tiffany Peoples, and I held a webinar called “A Fireside Chat on Industry Inclusion.” Since then, more presentations, training courses, round table discussions, and even a monthly column in Parking & Mobility magazine have all been added. We still have a long way to go, but the recent addition of the Allyship & Equity Advisory Group has us positioned to really make a difference in our industry. These initiatives are all about our people and our community. Seeing IPMI partnering with organizations that represent people with physical challenges and working towards improving accessible parking is also a great passion of mine. Of all the great things I’ve been blessed to be part of with IPMI when I can play a part in elevating people, I couldn’t be more satisfied.

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As I wrap this up, I want to pay tribute to the past IPMI board chairs whom I had the privilege to serve with and be mentored by. They are Liliana Rambo, CAPP; Kim Jackson, CAPP; Roamy Valera, CAPP; and Dave Onorato, CAPP. Each of these amazing people left their mark on IPMI, but Dave will go down in history as the only board chair serving a three-year term. One might think it’s because he is the (self-proclaimed) Godfather of Parking, but the reality is we can blame the pandemic. When we had no in-person meetings for well over a year, it was decided all the IPMI committees, board members, and board officers would remain in their roles for three years rather than two. So, Dave Onorato, besides being my colleague in the CAPP Class of 2010, had a lot of time to influence me. Time will tell if that was good or bad! It has been my honor to represent IPMI at many of the state and regional association meetings over the past two years and to meet with or present to many

organizations outside our immediate industry. Thank you all for allowing me to have this opportunity to serve as your board chair, but even more importantly, thanks to all of you who serve on committees and other boards within our organization.

You keep us moving forward.

You will be in great hands as Alex Argudin, CAPP, becomes board chair following this year’s IPMI Parking & Mobility Conference & Expo. Alex is brilliant and will take us to new levels.

I hope to see you at the conference, and let’s keep making great things happen! ◆

GARY A. MEANS, CAPP , is Executive Vice President for Pivot Parking, and Chair of the IPMI Board of Directors. He can be reached at gmeans@ pivotparking.com

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Carrying the Torch

By Alejandra “Alex” Argudin, CAPP

THE PATH TO SUCCESS unquestionably requires the courage to lead, the ability to guide, and the humility to recognize the unknown.

In June of this year, I will be honored to assume the chairmanship of the International Parking & Mobility Institute (IPMI). This is a pivotal time for the parking, mobility, and transportation industries. Swift technological advances, changes set in motion by the COVID-19 pandemic, and accelerated urban growth driving global change have shaken these industries to their core.

As I take the reins of IPMI, I look at the two years ahead with optimism and exhilaration largely because of the extraordinary foundations laid by my predecessor, Gary Means, CAPP. He is a best-in-class industry professional, and I am fortunate to have served the Board under his leadership. Thank you for laying the path to continued success!

I am equally excited about the industry metamorphoses and the ability to steer the Board in setting the strategic direction and long-term strategy that will catalyze growth, economic prosperity, and social vitality for future generations.

Nowadays, more than ever before, scanning the landscape ahead is the cornerstone of stewardship and good governance. A farsighted vision will judiciously prepare the IPMI Board to face the future. The Board has the right balance of skills, knowledge, diversity, and geographic representation to inspire strategic discussions, transparent and independent expressions of opinions, and collaboration.

Board members must remain aware of farsighted global disruptions and their inherent opportunities and challenges. With rapid technological innovation, economic volatility, and explosive urban growth, the Board must remain flexible and agile to thrive and succeed in an unpredictable global ecosystem. Successful farsighted boards work collaboratively and keep a long-term view of the future while preparing for and calibrating the potential impact of risks, opportunities, and challenges on their stakeholders.

One of the Board’s responsibilities is exploring evolving innovative concepts and paradigms that can disrupt

traditional business models. In the specific case of parking, the meteoric speed with which innovative technologies emerge and become obsolete cannot keep pace with the legislative policies required for their implementation. This scenario represents a challenge for parking professionals. Efforts to stay legislatively on par with these innovations should be a top priority for IPMI since they are aligned with the public’s economic progress and social vitality.

It is no secret that I have an unwavering passion for IPMI and a high respect for the abilities and talent of its Board of Directors. With that in mind, I will strive to accentuate these attributes and seed and grow ideas and perspectives. In 2006, Stanford University psychologist Carol Dweck, Ph. D., introduced a simple but revolutionary idea: the power of mindset. Her research indicated how we think about our talents and abilities determines our success in every human endeavor. Other points suggest that board directors with a growth mindset are passionate about innovating, learning, reasoning skills, and an achievement drive that will spur them to action.

This growth mindset can dare visualize creative concepts such as public-public partnerships and the more traditional public-private initiatives. While the IPMI Board’s duties do not call for formulating policies for these initiatives, it is nonetheless responsible for furthering a vision that aligns parking with future urban trends.

As cities grow exponentially in the U.S. and worldwide, best-in-class urban planning will no longer support standalone public parking structures. Every inch of city space will need to include various uses to respond to the needs of future urban dwellers. Public-private partnerships can play a role in maximizing the opportunities to build mixed-use public parking facilities near transit-oriented communities to respond to a dire national need for workforce and affordable housing.

In the same breath, transformative public-public partnerships, such as the case of Miami Parking Authority

“There are two kinds of people: those who do the work and those who take the credit. Try to be in the first group; there is less competition there.”

Indira

Gandhi, former prime minister of India.

and the city of Doral in South Florida, are creating a new playbook allowing municipal governments to access the expertise, workforce, and resources of a well-established parking organization to streamline the management of parking facilities, increase pedestrian and vehicular safety, improve mobility, and generate revenues. Ultimately, this is a collaborative effort that benefits the community.

Moreover, the Board can also make strides in cultivating existing industry talent and building the pipeline for the future pool of parking professionals. They will become the leaders of tomorrow and will

write future parking and mobility playbooks.

In sum, I am excited and ready to work hard in close collaboration with my Board colleagues and the excellent IPMI staff, without whom the task at hand would not be possible. Innovation and creativity in the parking and mobility industries can transform people’s lives and shape society’s future. ◆

ALEJANDRA “ALEX” ARGUDIN, CAPP , is the Chief Executive Officer of Miami Parking Authority and Chair-Elect of the IPMI Board of Directors. She can be reached at aargudin@ miamiparking.com

AI for the Social Good Bringing Equity in Mobility

By Rajiv Jain

EVERY NEW TECHNOLOGICAL CYCLE leads to greater advancements but also brings significant disruptions to society’s social fabric. From the Industrial Revolution to the Digital Revolution, we have seen how, on one hand, technologies have uplifted societies worldwide; on the other hand, although unintended, they have created ever-widening social divides.

Now, we are at the dawn of another technology revolution: the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Revolution. This time, it is going to be different. The underpinnings of this technological revolution are very different.

In the past, different factions of society adopted every new technology at different levels, leading to significant advancement for some and further marginalization of the disadvantaged.

Three factors explain this disparity in the adoption of any new technology, and these factors can make it different this time around with the AI revolution.

1. Usability gap. Unlike in the past when humanto-technology interfaces were built keeping common users in mind while disregarding the disadvantaged, the new interfaces for AI are going to be natural human expressions, including natural languages.

2. Content gap. In the past, technology was merely a tool. The value one derived from using that tool varied with the skills of the person using it. The self-generative capability of AI changes the status of technology in this new cycle of technology revolution, from a “passive tool” to an “active and participating companion.”

3. Innovation gap. In the past, due to high barriers to technological innovation, primary drivers for innovation were misaligned from the priorities of social good. It required significant resources, profit-driven entrepreneurs, or heavily funded public bodies to bring innovation. When AI takes over the role of the innovator, then the “profit for few” will give way to the “social good for all” as the primary driver of innovation. Of course, that greatly depends on the social values that we impart into the AI training models now while AI is in its infancy.

AI Makes the Technology Framework for Equity in Mobility Implementable

But how will this AI revolution change technology adoption, leading to social good in mobility?

In the May 2022 edition of Parking & Mobility magazine, I wrote an article proposing a comprehensive technology framework for defining adaptive public policies for social equity in mobility. Since then, various public bodies at different levels have done a lot of policy work. There has also been widespread recognition that solving social inequities is not just the government’s responsibility.

However, the technology framework defined in my earlier article was a resource-intensive proposition for any organization, whether public or private, to bring to fruition. Conceptually, the framework is a complete solution to the social equity in mobility problem, but since it was built upon pre-AI technologies, the framework suffered from the above-mentioned gaps in usability, content, and innovation, making its implementation very prohibitive.

Let’s look at each of the five layers of the framework—data collection, data privacy, quantification, policy definition, and policy execution—and see how AI bridges the above-mentioned gaps and makes the overall framework more implementable when applied to them.

Human-generated data collection is essential in any analytical model to effectively understand and solve social inequity problems. A data collection framework severely fails to collect human-generated data without natural human expression and natural language interfaces. AI bridges this usability gap with its natural interface languages.

A data privacy framework is essential for the overall trust in the system. Any leakage of private data can lead to long-lasting mistrust in the system and future impediments to cooperation and data sharing by individuals and organizations. AI is unparalleled in identifying private information patterns and automatically self-generating anonymization. AI efficiently bridges this content gap.

AI also bridges the content gap in the Quantification framework. With its sophisticated pattern recognition and content generation capability, AI can very efficiently enable granularization and localization of large and diverse datasets, leading to the analytics down to recognizing actionable patterns of information.

A policy definition framework requires not only very specialized data science skills but also strong domain expertise in policy making. Moreover, both technical and policy experts must work hand in hand to perform analysis and make predictions. Typically, there is a significant communication barrier between the two experts due to the language of their respective professions. AI bridges the usability gap by learning from policy experts and bridges the content gap by applying social AI models for predictions and performing the impact analysis of their predictions.

Finally, the policy execution framework is where bridging the innovation gap is most crucial. Significant resources are required to roll out social equity policies. With very few financial rewards to profit-seeking entrepreneurs and cashstrapped government bodies, traditional drivers of innovation are absent for individuals and organizations to execute these social equity policies. This is where AI becomes the innovator and flips the drivers from the “profit for few” to the “social good for all,” thus bridging the innovation gap.

Conclusion

The AI Revolution will be very different from any other technology revolution. It will eliminate the ageold fallacies of technology innovation, which have always led to unintended harm to the social fabric of society through the widening of the social divide and the irreparable marginalization of the disadvantaged. Of course, that greatly depends on the social values we impart into AI training models. If the foundational models are trained on value systems, social inequities must be addressed first for society to thrive. Then AI will balance and maximize social good in its every prediction and prescription. ◆

RAJIV JAIN is CEO of ParkEngage and a member of IPMI’s Technology Committee. He can be reached at rajiv.jain@ parkengage.com

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EV Charging Accessibility

A Comprehensive Guide in Ensuring ADA Compliance in Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

By Jason R. Goldfarb, Esq.

AS THE DEMAND FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES (EVS) and charging stations continues to rise, it is imperative to ensure that these facilities are accessible and usable by individuals with disabilities. The U.S. Access Board, an independent federal agency responsible for issuing accessibility guidelines under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Architectural Barriers Act (ABA), and other relevant laws, has provided a technical assistance document to guide the design and construction of ADAcompliant EV charging stations. In this article, we will explore some of the key insights from this document, emphasizing the importance of compliance and inclusivity.

Understanding ADA and ABA Requirements

The ADA covers entities such as state and local governments (Title II) and places of public accommodation and commercial facilities (Title III). It is enforced by various federal agencies, including the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), and requires minimum scoping and technical requirements. The ABA, on the other hand, requires accessibility for facilities designed, built, or altered with federal funds. Both acts have specific standards applicable to EV charging stations.

Accessibility Standards for EV Charging Stations

● ADA and ABA Accessibility Standards:

◆ EV charging stations must comply with technical requirements, including floor and ground surfaces, clear floor or ground space, reach ranges, operable parts, accessible routes, and other provisions specified in ADA and ABA Accessibility Standards.

● Section 508 Standards:

◆ EV chargers developed, procured, maintained, or used by federal agencies must adhere to Section 508 Standards. This includes ensuring accessibility for the user interface (UI) to individuals with disabilities, aligning with federal requirements.

Differentiating Parking and EV Charging

Recognizing the unique requirements of EV charging, the technical assistance document emphasizes distinctions between parking and EV charging spaces. Unlike traditional parking, EV charging requires users with disabilities to exit their vehicles, navigate to the charger, and carry the connector back to their vehicle’s charging inlet. This fundamental difference requires careful consideration in design and compliance.

Mobility and Communication Features

● Accessible Mobility Features:

◆ EV charging stations must provide physical access for individuals using mobility devices, requiring specific dimensions for vehicle charging spaces, access aisles, clear floor space, and accessible operable parts.

● Accessible Communication Features:

◆ All EV chargers should incorporate accessible communication features and operable parts to accommodate individuals with a variety of disabilities.

Compliance Considerations

● Compliance for Federal EV Chargers:

◆ EV chargers developed, procured, maintained, or used by federal agencies must comply with Section 508 Standards, ensuring accessible ICT, including hardware, software, and operable parts.

● EV Charging Spaces with Mobility Features:

◆ Designated spaces for EV charging with mobility features should meet specific dimensions, including a minimum width of 132 inches and a minimum length of 240 inches, accompanied by access aisles at least 60 inches wide.

Ensuring ADA compliance in EV charging stations is not just a regulatory requirement; it’s a commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all users. By adhering to the technical assistance document provided by the U.S. Access Board and understanding the unique considerations for EV charging spaces, stakeholders can contribute to developing a more accessible and user-friendly EV charging infrastructure.

The good news is that wireless EV charging is on the horizon, with several companies working on

these systems and electric vehicles that will be able to charge wirelessly. Wireless EV charging has the potential to be a massive game changer due to the simplicity of the charging experience—no cables, dongles, or plugs, and there’s no need to exit the vehicle to charge up or pay. EVs capable of wireless charging drive up to or over the wireless charging pad, and charging takes place nearly automatically with minimal user input. However, until this technology becomes mainstream, and perhaps to some extent once it does, charging installations will still require ADA and ABA Compliance. ◆

JASON R. GOLDFARB, ESQ .is an attorney at Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP. He can be reached at jgoldfarb@frblaw.com.

A Closed Mouth Does Not Get Fed

Speaking

Up on Allyship

By Joseph R Madison II

IAM TOO HUNGRY TO KEEP MY MOUTH CLOSED. This timeless wisdom reminds us that our voices can shape our lives, communities, and collective destiny. But beyond individual empowerment lies a deeper truth: speaking up is not just about self-advocacy; it’s about lifting others, challenging norms, and fostering a more inclusive society.

Amplifying Marginalized Voices

Lifting Others Up

Allyship transcends mere empathy; it involves active support. When we use our privilege—whether it’s based on race, gender, or socioeconomic status—to amplify the voices of those who face systemic barriers, we become allies. We bring others to join the tables laden with opportunities. Some have seats reserved for you, while others stand along the walls hoping to identify safe spaces and company. As allies, we create space and ensure everyone has a seat. We recognize that true progress occurs when everyone eats, not just a select few. Remember, we need Light. We need Love. We need you to join us.

Advocating for Inclusion

Inclusion isn’t a passive act; it’s a deliberate choice. We create a mosaic of ideas by advocating for others to bring their full voices to the table. When we champion colleagues who belong to marginalized groups, we contribute to a workplace where everyone’s voice matters. Allyship isn’t about being a savior but a bridge builder, connecting different experiences and providing passage over rough waters.

Challenging Biases and Stereotypes

Questioning Assumptions

Allies are truth-seekers. They question assumptions, dismantle stereotypes, and challenge the status quo. When faced with a biased narrative, they ask, “Whose voice is not represented?” or “What is the truth according to others?” By doing so, they disrupt harmful narratives and take ownership of the bridge to understanding. Allies become the reason that unconscious biases begin to fade.

Educating Peers

Allies share knowledge, not as know-it-alls, but with life experiences shared to build culture. They educate their community about microaggressions, cultural nuances, and historical context. By doing this, they create a strong current—a collective awakening that dismantles stereotypes and biases.

Creating Safe Spaces

Being an Active Listener

Safe spaces thrive on active listening. Allies lend their ears without judgment. They validate others’ experiences, acknowledging pain, joy, and frustration. When someone speaks, allies don’t interrupt; they hold space, allowing vulnerability to flourish. They embrace the silence and intentional pauses.

Validating Experiences

Validation is healing. When an ally says, “I hear you,” it’s more than words; it’s a lifeline. By validating experiences, allies build trust. They affirm that no one’s reality is insignificant and every voice deserves acknowledgment.

Taking Action Against Discrimination

Calling Out Injustice

Allies refuse to be bystanders. They call out discrimination, whether microaggressions, biases, or offcolor jokes. Their courage isn’t loud; it’s persistent. They recognize that silence perpetuates harm, and they choose to disrupt it.

Supporting Change

Allyship isn’t passive sympathy; it’s active advocacy. Allies work behind the scenes, pushing for policy changes, diversity initiatives, and equitable practices. They understand that change doesn’t happen overnight, but their consistent efforts move mountains.

Building Bridges Across Differences

Seeking Common Ground

Allies seek bridges, not walls. They find commonalities across diverse backgrounds. Whether it’s shared hobbies, dreams, or schools, they connect. These bridges foster understanding, breaking down barriers erected by fear and ignorance.

Learning from Others

Finally, allies remain lifelong learners. They recognize that their perspective is just one thread in the grand tapestry of humanity. By learning from others, they expand their horizons, enriching their own lives in the process.

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Conclusion

A closed mouth does not get fed. Remember this truth as we navigate our personal and collective journeys. Our voices—when raised in solidarity—can nourish us and those who hunger for justice, equality, and acceptance. So, let us speak up, listen actively, and be allies. In doing so, we feed our souls and ignite a flame that can illuminate the darkest corners of our world along our individual journeys. Please join the discussion and allow your voice to be amplified.◆

JOSEPH R. MADISON II is Associate Director of Parking Operations for Kennesaw State University and a member of IPMI’s Allyship & Equity Advisory Group. He can be reached at jmadiso8@kennesaw.edu

Peoria County Transportation Equity Study

The Keys to Innovation

By Dr. Greg Hladik, Ph.D.

IN THE BUSTLING LIFE OF A COLLEGE CAMPUS, where the daily grind often revolves around navigating through parking and transportation woes, it’s easy to overlook the hidden gems of opportunity that lie in everyday challenges. However, for those with a keen eye and a bit of self-motivation, these obstacles can become stepping stones to innovation, career advancement, and significantly improving our community’s collective experience.

Consider the role each staff member plays within our parking and transportation departments. It’s more than just a job; it’s a pivotal point where operational needs meet opportunities for innovative solutions. The challenges we face every day don’t have to be endured but are, in fact, opportunities for improvement waiting to be taken. From reducing workloads with AI to doubling the life of your asphalt lots with plastic, we each have an obligation to lead innovative change to solve the challenges we each face.

But how does one transition from identifying a problem to implementing a solution? The answer may lie in artificial intelligence and the advent of user-friendly tools like Gemini and ChatGPT. These AI-driven platforms have provided access to advanced technologies, enabling even those without a tech background to leverage AI’s power in solving real-

real-time customer service inquiries, reducing wait times and improving user experience. The possibilities are as varied as the challenges we encounter daily.

The key to unlocking these opportunities starts with a simple yet profound step: taking initiative. By observing and logging the inefficiencies we encounter, brainstorming potential solutions, and not shying away from leveraging cutting-edge tools like AI, we position ourselves as innovators within our departments and universities.

Collaboration also plays a critical role in this journey. The campus is a vibrant ecosystem of knowledge and talent, with faculty members, student organizations, and external partners bringing unique perspectives and resources. Engaging with these potential collaborators can transform a good idea into a transformative project.

One of the most underutilized resources on campus is the collective brainpower of our research faculty. These brilliant minds are constantly searching for realworld applications for their work, and what’s more real-world on a college campus than the challenge of parking and transportation? By partnering with faculty, we open the door to a world of possibilities, from sustainable transportation solutions to smart parking technologies. These collaborations can turn our most pressing issues into opportunities for groundbreaking research and practical innovation— not to mention the potential for publishing research articles and growing research expenditures—metrics that speak the language of success in academia.

However, bringing these collaborative visions to life isn’t without its hurdles. From budgetary constraints to regulatory challenges and cultural resistance to

change, each barrier necessitates strategic navigation and innovative solutions.

One significant challenge we face is the financial aspect of funding innovative projects. However, we’ve found a way to navigate this through utilizing research expenditures. By partnering with faculty and leveraging the potential for research grants, we can secure funding for equipment and operational needs that directly benefit our projects. We adopt a budget-neutral model, providing in-kind contributions such as staff time and existing resources. This approach supports grant applications by showing commitment and readiness and ensures that the department’s budget remains intact. By positioning our initiatives as opportunities for academic research, we unlock new funding avenues that align with the university’s broader goals.

The complexity of regulatory compliance, particularly with cutting-edge technologies like autonomous vehicles or smart parking systems, can be overwhelming. To mitigate this, we collaborate with private partners who bring their expertise and experience in navigating regulatory landscapes. By allowing these partners to operate services, we supplement the responsibility for compliance, leveraging their knowledge and resources to ensure our projects adhere to all regulations. This partnership approach allows us to focus on the innovative aspects of our projects while ensuring that we operate within legal frameworks.

Resistance to change is a natural human tendency, especially in established communities like a college campus. To address this, we focus on controlling the narrative, ensuring that we’re telling the story we want to be told. This means proactive communication about the goals, benefits, and progress of our projects, highlighting how they contribute to the university’s broader mission and improve the campus experience.

Moreover, we establish clear metrics for measuring success or failure by utilizing research projects and partnerships. This empirical approach allows us to present concrete results—whether positive or negative—that support the narrative of innovation and progress. When the campus community sees tangible benefits, resistance is reduced. Success stories, backed by data and research, become powerful tools for winning over skeptics and building broader support for innovative initiatives.

By addressing these challenges with strategic approaches—leveraging research funding, partnering with experts, and controlling the narrative—we can more confidently navigate the path of innovation. Our efforts not only overcome immediate obstacles but also lay the

Innovation in parking and transportation doesn’t always involve groundbreaking inventions. Often, incremental improvements lead to significant advancements.

groundwork for a culture of continuous improvement and open-mindedness toward change.

Before focusing on innovation, we must ensure our basic duties are executed. Getting our house in order means demonstrating to our administration and stakeholders that we’re not just dreamers— we’re doers. Building trust is paramount; it is the currency that buys us the freedom to experiment. This foundation of trust enables us to take calculated risks, those well-considered ventures into innovation that can significantly alter the landscape of campus life for the better.

Proposing a new project, especially one incorporating AI or other advanced technologies, requires clarity, conciseness, and a compelling argument. Highlight how your idea aligns with the department’s goals, the benefits it promises, and the support it has garnered from potential partners. It’s about selling the dream and then delivering the results, focusing on measurable outcomes such as cost savings, efficiency improvements, and enhanced community engagement.

Innovation in parking and transportation doesn’t always involve groundbreaking inventions. Often, incremental improvements lead to significant advancements. Each successful project not only improves our operations but also highlights your capabilities, marking you as a forward-thinking contributor poised for greater responsibilities. Many might see our department at UT Arlington as a beacon of innovation, and they’re not wrong. We proudly host the nation’s longest-running self-driving shuttle program, a pioneering project that not only puts us on the map but significantly enhances campus transportation. Then there’s our groundbreaking initiative of incorporating plastic into parking lots, a first of its kind globally, aimed at prolonging asphalt

life and reducing the need for frequent repairs. And let’s not forget the AI-enabled parking finder app, a tech marvel set to cover 85% of our parking lots with occupancy sensors, making parking a hassle-free experience for everyone.

These achievements, while impressive, didn’t materialize out of thin air. They were born out of necessity—a response to the everyday challenges that once seemed like hurdles too high to jump. But jump we did, by finding the right partners who shared our vision, securing funding sources ready to back bold ideas, and meticulously crafting plans that resonated with the university’s mission and overarching goals.

You might wonder how you can contribute to such transformative projects. The truth is innovation isn’t reserved for a select few. It begins with identifying a problem, no matter how small, and daring to imagine a solution, no matter how out-of-the-box it seems. It requires partnering with those who complement your vision, whether a tech startup, a passionate faculty member, or even students eager to make a difference. And yes, it often involves pitching your idea, backing it with solid research, and clearly aligning with our shared goals for the campus.

But perhaps most importantly, it demands perseverance. The road to innovation is paved with setbacks and naysayers, yet those willing to go the extra mile, to push through the ‘no’ and the ‘it can’t be done,’ truly leave a mark. Whether it’s by adding plastic to asphalt or imagining a campus where selfdriving shuttles are the norm, your wacky idea could very well be the next big thing that transforms our campus and sets a precedent with a global impact.

So, I encourage you to look around, question the status quo, and think about how to make a difference. Innovation isn’t just about improving things; it’s about reimagining how we experience our world. And in our work on a college campus, every challenge, no matter how daunting, is an opportunity to do just that. ◆

DR. GREG HLADIK, PH.D. , is Executive Director

of Auxiliary Services for the University of Texas at Arlington. He can be reached at hladik@uta.edu

Take a Step Back to Plan

By Kathryn Hebert, Ph.D.

HOLDING AN UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE in Environmental Biology, I initially aspired to careers in medicine and research. Yet, life’s journey often takes sharp turns in unexpected ways, occasionally circling back.

For nearly four decades, I’ve navigated the multifaceted world of municipal government, transitioning through roles in finance, budgets, administration, community development and engagement, arts and culture, parking, transportation, and mobility. Recently, my focus has shifted towards community sustainability, embracing green initiatives and practices. In 2021, my commitment to environmental stewardship was recognized with my appointment as Chairman of the Sustainable Commission for Bethel, Connecticut, aligning with the broader mission of Sustainable CT.

Sustainability encompasses many responsibilities, from land use and planning to public engagement, requiring a dialogue with the community and actionable steps towards environmental preservation. This mission involves deploying green initiatives to cut consumption, pivot towards renewable energy, and emphasize water conservation, waste management, and energy efficiency. Such efforts are critical across housing, business, tourism, culture, arts, and transportation.

Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 28%. Addressing this issue head-on, electrifying commercial fleets, and encouraging the shift from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles is paramount. The development of a robust EV charging infrastructure is essential to this transition.

Looking back, in 2010/2011, the federal government’s grants enabled municipalities to pioneer the installation of EV chargers, setting the stage for the current electrification movement. My team and I were trailblazers, but despite early adoption, the real momentum for EVs and charging infrastructure gained traction in the 2020s. The stars and planets seemed to align; electric vehicles and chargers became the priority across the U.S. and globally, with car manufacturers

producing electric vehicles at record rates. In 2023, this was further fueled by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), allocating $7.5 billion towards electric mobility specifically for developing and expanding a nationwide network of EV Chargers.

In 2024, as we navigate the complexities of the rapidly expanding EV charging infrastructure, municipalities, driven by a mix of ambition and FOMO (fear of missing out), face challenges. The EV charging market continues to be like the wild west, peppered with confusion. This focused push for municipalities to hurry up and install EV chargers by legislative deadlines was imposed by the Federal and State Governments. In the past several years, many municipalities rushed to have EV chargers installed with no plan or criteria, seeking state and federal guidance, advice, and

standards. This whole ball of confusion has been a moving target that keeps changing.

In this twisted race to be first and the perception of FOMO, we are now at a chasm or crossroads and have started to step back, hit the brakes, and evaluate what is really going on with the EV charging market. What we have learned so far is that there is much to consider and evaluate before launching an electric vehicle charging installation: a lack of and/or access to or basic understanding of funding, procurement and supply chain processes, equipment reliability, consistent standards, operation and maintenance, convenient, accessible, safe, and affordable EV charging station locations.

Bethel, a small town in Connecticut, has experienced a population growth of about 14% in the last 10 to 12

Seamless All-In-One Solutions

As we navigate the complexities of the rapidly expanding EV charging infrastructure, municipalities, driven by a mix of ambition and FOMO (fear of missing out), face challenges.

years, with the most significant population increase in the last few years. Bethel embodies the vision of sustainable development, leveraging renewable energy, such as our solar farm (operating since 2018), to power community assets. With limited resources, the Sustainable Bethel Commission, in collaboration with First Selectman Dan Carter and local stakeholders, is crafting a multi-year strategy to embrace sustainable practices fully. This strategy encompasses a thoughtful approach to EV charging infrastructure, renewable energy integration, and the transition to electric municipal fleets, ensuring Bethel remains a responsible development and community engagement model.

In advance of the development of the EV charging multi-year strategy, the team is reviewing current conditions and providing answers to simple questions such as:

1. Who are the users?

2. How many locations and where? Parking lots, garages, railroad stations?

3. Are the locations accessible to all users and emergency services?

4. How will these operate and be maintained?

5. What is the expected growth, and how will growth be managed?

6. What type/level of equipment will be provided, and how are they powered?

7. What are the risks?

8. What permits are needed?

9. Are there easements?

10. What technology will be offered? Dashboard, apps, credit card, coin?

11. What is the legislative process?

12. What are the contractual obligations?

13. What are the estimated budget and costs?

14. Are these public amenities or user fee-based?

15. What is the vendor relationship?

16. What is the customer service response to the public?

The strategy will include immediate needs, near, mid-, and long-term initiatives:

● Public/Private Partnerships (P3s)—address current needs and potential growth.

● Zoning—integrate EV charging language into the zoning regulations.

● Municipal Fleet– transition the municipal ICE fleet to electric.

● Revenue Generation—pay for operation, maintenance, and future EV charging installations.

● Phased Development—deploying the town’s EV charging infrastructure will consider neighborhood revitalization, transit-oriented development, and equitable access.

● Renewable Energy—relationship to other renewable energy sources such as the existing solar farm and future solar canopies in parking lots to reduce dependence on the electric grid.

● Management—approach to managing parking real estate assets and on-street right of way where public access EV chargers are typically installed.

Community sustainability is achievable when all components work together for safety, equitable access, affordability, and convenience. It is equally important to have public engagement and input through collaborative planning, education, and action from all demographics, businesses, and neighborhoods (including unserved and underserved areas). The EV charging network is an important component of the sustainability tree. There is so much to consider. It will take a bit longer than expected for behaviors to change and be part of daily life. ◆

KATHRYN HEBERT, PH.D. , is the President and CEO of TPMConnect. She can be reached at khebert601@gmail.com.

Walker Consultants

EFIRM NAME: Walker Consultants

PROJECT LOCATION: Daytona Beach, FL

PROJECT OWNER: Embry Riddle Aeronautical University

KEY STAFF:

• Brian Preston, PE—Principal in Charge

• Matthew Conley, PE, SE—Project Manager

PROJECT TEAM MEMBERS:

• Walker Consultants—Prime Consultant, Parking Deck Design, Structural Engineering

• PQH Group —Architecture

MBRY RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY (ERAU) is a prestigious, private aviation and aerospace engineering college located in central Florida. In 2019, the university had recently completed its new flagship student union and desperately needed to increase parking compactly. The only sensible location for a parking structure that would not detract visual appeal of the student union was directly southwest of the building. The only problem with this location is that structure height in this area was limited due to nearby Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) sight lines at Daytona Beach International Airport. The solution: hire Walker Consultants to design a garage that maximizes the parking count, maintains FAA sight lines, compliments the student union, and provides spaces for safety and post office personnel, all while maintaining a $12 million project budget. Sounds easy, doesn’t it?

• OCI Associates, Inc.—MEP/FP

• Parker Mynchenberg & Associates, Inc.—Civil Engineering

• Prosser | PRIME AE—Landscape Architecture

Preston

Conley

During the initial phases of the project, Walker worked closely with ERAU and PQH on initial design concepts to develop schematic design plans for the garage directly south of the student union. As the design evolved, the garage was pushed west slightly to avoid interference with the existing student union roundabout. The garage utilized a center-parked onramp and a stepped-tier approach on the south side to accommodate the FAA site lines. This allowed the team to maximize the parking count while creating some visual appeal to the structure.

One challenge associated with the stepped-tier approach was light poles. Due to FAA restrictions, and the need to maximize the height of the garage, the light poles were severely limited in height at specific locations on the garage. In some locations, the maximum height of the pole was only 7’-0”. To combat this, the design team closely reviewed egress lighting requirements and pole spacing to provide necessary light coverage without exceeding the height. The resulting light pole layout included densely located light poles at specific locations combined with traditional 25’-0” poles at locations where a greater height was allowed.

The final garage design contains 620 total parking spaces, is four levels tall, and contains over 229,000 square feet with approximately 8,000 square feet of safety and post office space for ERAU employees. Some of the spaces include offices, break rooms, briefing rooms, hold rooms, a fitness center, locker rooms, bathrooms, box office lobbies, and a service counter. The façade combines perforated and solid metal panels with custom graphics, painted precast concrete, and aluminum fins to stylize the look without detracting from the nearby student union.

The final garage design contains 620 total parking spaces, is four levels tall, and contains over 229,000 square feet with approximately 8,000 square feet of safety and post office space.

At the end of the project, the university obtained much needed parking and dedicated space for its post office and safety staff who previously were working out of temporary and/or makeshift spaces. The garage façade design perfectly complements the surrounding aesthetic while enhancing the student and staff experience with convenient parking. The structure, including its light poles, complies with all FAA sight line requirements, ensuring that the Embry Riddle name written on the garage’s exterior is well represented in the field of expertise it teaches. ◆

Building Connectedness Through Active Listening

By Andy Santos

PROMOTING TEAM AND ORGANIZATIONAL CONNECTEDNESS is an important component of organizational success. A strongly connected community of employees positively impacts working relationships, which leads to better collaboration, productivity, and employee engagement. In a study conducted by behavioral scientists and data experts at BetterUp, it was found that employees who were able to build strong connections at work experienced 34% greater goal attainment, 36% boost in well-being, 59% more positive relationships, and 92% more professional growth. Connectedness makes a difference in the work environment, but how can we cultivate connectedness with our team members and the organization? A great way to do this is through active listening.

What is Active Listening?

Active listening is the practice of truly hearing what someone is saying to understand their perspective and experience while acknowledging their thoughts and feelings. Active listening is a skill that can be developed through consistent practice. If active listening is a skill that you’re currently working on, there are best practices to keep in mind, including:

● Be fully present by listening to someone else without any distractions. This could mean turning your phone off, not looking at emails, or not multitasking during a meeting or one-on-one conversation.

● Actively engage by making eye contact and nodding when you understand what the other person is saying or asking a question if you need clarification or more context to truly understand what they are sharing with you.

● Reflect on the conversation by sharing your understanding and acknowledging the other person’s thoughts and feelings. You can do this by repeating what they said in a summary that encapsulates their perspective.

Listening to Understand vs Listening to Respond

Another way to practice your active listening skills is to listen to understand and avoid listening to respond. If

you’ve experienced someone cutting you off in the middle of a conversation, that person is most likely listening to respond, and it probably didn’t make you feel good or heard. Believe it or not, this happens a lot, especially with women, people of color, and other marginalized groups. In fact, according to a research study conducted by LeanIn.org and McKinsey, 40% of Black and Latina women reported being interrupted and spoken over in a work setting. With this understanding of the negative impact when people listen to respond, we must listen to understand to show that we value other people’s perspectives and that we care about what our coworkers have to say.

Person-to-Person Listening vs Person-toBelonging Listening

So far, I’ve discussed the importance of active listening regarding conversations with people we work with. However, there is another way we can actively listen without having an actual conversation with someone. LaTonya Wilkins, Founder of Change Coaches, discusses person-to-belonging listening in her book, Leading Below the Surface: How to Build Real (and Psychologically Safe) Relationships with People Different from You. In this book, Wilkins differentiates person-to-person (P2P) listening from person-to-belonging (P2B) listening:

● Person-to-person (P2P) listening refers to listening to a person’s thoughts and perspective during a direct conversation with them.

● Person-to-belonging (P2B) listening refers to observing how a person interacts with a to understand their sense of belonging as part of a group.

P2B listening is critical in promoting connectedness at work because it allows us to discern someone’s comfort level in connecting during a conversation, a meeting, or within a team. Do you notice when someone is unusually quiet in a particular meeting or when they are with a specific group? Is someone in your team showing signs of discomfort or putting up a wall when interacting with another group but themselves when working with your team? If you observe these interactions through P2B listening, it’s a

good idea to check in with that person and engage in P2P listening to understand any potential connection and belonging challenges and how you can offer support.

Whether person-to-person or person-to-belonging listening, active listening strengthens the sense of connection between team members and within an organization. When active listening is embedded in our culture and best practices at work, people feel heard and understood and have more understanding and empathy for each other. ◆

ANDY SANTOS is the Director of People and Culture for SpotHero and a member of IPMI’s Allyship & Equity Advisory Group. He can be reached at andy.santos@spothero.com

Southwest Parking & Transportation Association

VIVA la SWPTA

By Donna King, CAPP

THE SOUTHWEST PARKING AND TRANSPORTATION ASSOCIATION (SWPTA) has an amazing group of volunteers who support the organization. We live and breathe the SWPTA life each and every day. Each year, SWPTA volunteers have come up with out-of-the-box ideas to bring the parking industry and our members excellent educational and networking opportunities that are fun and new. #VIVAlaSWPTA is our latest innovative hashtag, released in 2024.

Webinars

In 2023, we had three educational webinars. In February 2023, the first was presented by Steven Burrell on Using Carefrontation to Confront Toxic Colleagues. In March 2023, the second was presented by two of our board members, Cristie Steffy and Darby Garcia, on How to Train Your Sharks. The third, in August 2023, was presented by Tracy Miller on The Power of the Pause. All three webinars were well attended by our industry colleagues and provided excellent educational content. In 2024, we started the year with a webinar in February presented by Robert Church on Emergency Management: More Than Just Fire and Police Response. The SWPTA Professional Development Committee is in the planning process for four additional webinars in 2024. Be sure to visit the SWPTA website at southwestparking.org for updates. All webinars offer CAPP points for attendance. You can view the recordings on the SWPTA YouTube channel if you missed any webinars.

Networking

In addition to our educational webinars, we have social networking webinars with a fun SWPTA spin on them. In April

2023, we launched our first annual Egg Decorating Contest. The second annual SWPTA Egg Decorating Contest occurred on March 28, 2024. Participants decorate eggs and present them to the group during a fun-filled virtual happy hour. Some of our amazing sponsors awarded the winners prizes.

In December 2023, we hosted our Fourth Annual #SWPTAstic Gingerbread Garage build contest. This fun-filled event invites participants to build a gingerbread parking garage out of edible materials. Each participant presents their garage with all built-in features to the virtual audience. The competition has become fierce for the much-coveted bragging rights and prizes offered by our sponsors.

SWPTA specializes in in-person networking events. In September 2023, we hosted a networking event in Denver, Colorado. Be sure to watch for upcoming announcements about the 2024 SWPTA networking events.

Frontline Training

The SWPTA organization prides itself on providing our frontline parking staff with much-needed training. In March 2023, we offered in-depth interactive safety and customer service training

for our frontline staff in Las Vegas, Nevada, presented by Tammy Baker. In April 2024, SWPTA hosted a mid-year conference focusing on frontline parking enforcement presented by Captain Nick Nicholas, Seal Beach PD, and Commander Caleb Davis, Paso Robles PD, in Durango, Colorado.

SWPTA Online

SWPTA’s online presence is exceptional. We offer monthly blog posts with everything from tips to working on the road to the Parking Multiverse. You can find our blog posts each month at southwestparking.org . Our social media presence is unparalleled thanks to our amazing Social Media Chair, Maria Tamayo-Soto. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Be sure to check out our hashtags #SWPTAstic, #SWPTA4life, #LetsSWPTA, and many more.

Conference

If you haven’t attended SWPTA’s annual conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, in October each year, you are missing out. Our conference demonstrates SWPTA’s unique take on education, networking, and fun. In 2023, we had our highest conference attendance and highest sponsor participation ever, compelling us to move to a larger conference room at the Golden Nugget, Las Vegas, to accommodate our larger conference attendance.

Our conference committee hand-selects all conference presentations to offer the highest level of education possible. All sessions are submitted for CAPP points. In addition to our education, you will experience a different kind of

conference atmosphere. There is no trade show floor where vendors stand around and wait for passing customers. All attendees attend the same educational sessions, networking events, and sponsor pitches together, providing a quality atmosphere for education and networking for all.

At the 2023 Conference, we had our annual Top Golf opening event, the SWPTA annual awards, and Power Hour presentations by our sponsors. In addition, we had our annual Halloween costume contest and a scavenger hunt through downtown Las Vegas. It is the only place you can see a gathering of conference attendees dressed up as parking signs running on Fremont Street to parking meters to get their next clue so they can get to the SWPTA party first.

If you want to attend a SWPTA conference or event and haven’t had the opportunity, registration is offered free for first time agency attendees. SWPTA’s 2024 Conference is scheduled for October 28 to 30, 2024, at the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas. We also offer the Warren Reynolds Scholarship to all eligible SWPTA members. SWPTA memberships include all members of your agency for one low annual price. Contact us today for more information ◆

DONNA KING, CAPP , is the Parking Program Manager for the City of San Luis Obispo and a member of the IPMI State & Regional Association Committee. She can be reached at dking@slocity.org

EXPERTS ASK THE

What is the parking and mobility industry doing to impact transportation equity?

Transportation equity requires understanding the needs of every person potentially served or impacted by every transportation decision. What is the parking and mobility industry doing to impact transportation equity?

Gabe Mendez, CAPP

Director of Transportation Operations

UW-Madison

Transportation Services

What we have done at UW-Madison is utilize GIS to do a geospatial analysis of where our employees live and use that to help inform our planning decisions. We have used this to focus our park and ride efforts in the correct region and to identify gaps in our local mass transit system for our underserved communities.

Nicole Chinea, CAPP

Senor Planner, Community Resilience & Transportation Planning

Harris County, Texas

In Harris County, to better understand the transportation needs across a total of 33 cities, extensive public outreach is conducted as part of the community planning process. Due to the size and diversity of the County, these needs often vary by community. Conducting targeted outreach allows impactful decision-making specific to transportation equity.

Christopher Jones, PMC

Operations Manager, Ground

Transportation & Parking

YYC Calgary International Airport

Our responsibility as an airport is to understand how our passengers want to get to and from the airport and then work with industry partners to provide that service seamlessly, regardless of the passenger’s mobility. Accessible parking stalls are the obvious starting point, but city transit, taxi, rideshare, car rental, hotel shuttles, limousines, and private drop off/ pick up are all modes of travel that must be able to provide accommodation. Evolving how we communicate with our passengers and keeping in mind how people receive information is also critical.

L. Dennis Burns, CAPP

Kimley-Horn

Retired

A recent article in Forbes magazine on this topic discussed the “need to balance providing core services while also evolving transportation solutions to be more sustainable, equitable, and inclusive. The article proposed five key areas to help ensure more equitable and inclusive transportation systems: “public transport, intelligent and citizenoriented mobility, corporate mobility, mobility of goods, and governance and regulation models”. In addition, embracing technology to guide transportation strategic planning can help leaders meet these goals.

Brett Munkel, CAPP

Vice President, Healthcare and University Services

SP+

The embrace of technology has provided access and options to previously underserved individuals and groups. As this trend continues to accelerate, ever more specific needs will be met, and our industry will ultimately be able to serve every person where they want to be.

Erik Nelson, PCIP

Director of Operations & Technology Consulting Walker Consultants

As consultants, we research conditions, interview residents, host community gatherings, survey, and recommend actionable, fundable changes to our clients to support their transportation equity goals. Breaking down barriers to equitable transportation makes communities stronger and more vibrant.

Kathryn Hebert

President and CEO

TPMConnect

Transportation equity is about providing safe, reliable, accessible, affordable and convenient choices for all including unserved and underserved communities and neighborhoods. We all have to get from one place to another. Transportation impacts all of us in our ability to work and provide for our families, housing, education, healthy meals, wellness and medical treatment, entertainment and just the ability to visit friends and family. We are already developing innovative technology advancing equitable choices while working closely with local municipalities, universities and hospitals collectively creating public, private partnership strategies.

Ravali Kosaraju, PE, PTOE Director, Mobility WGI, Inc.

In recent years, there has been a strong effort to address the impact of transportation on socioeconomic and housing opportunities by emphasizing equity in mobility planning. This involves engaging communities, especially historically underrepresented groups, in meaningful public dialogue to ensure their needs take precedence in decision-making processes. Applying an equity lens to transportation planning also emphasizes accessibility and safety for all.

David

Sorrell, MOL, TDM-CP

Transportation Demand Management Administrator

University of California, Berkeley

Transit and mobility companies still have a way to go to ensure that there are opportunities to increase service delivery to all, including women and minorities including low-income and zero household communities. We in the transit and mobility spaces need to follow through on commitments to equity (programming, funding, policy) to help support movement and access in transit intentionally and not performatively.

London Weier

Assistant Policy Associate, Transportation and Thriving Communities

Transportation for America

When transportation practitioners advocate for and create design recommendations that shape our world, those most affected by these decisions need to have a seat at the table. At Transportation for America, we are using a collaborative approach by distributing an end-user survey, working with disability advocacy organizations and coordinating with parking and mobility organizations to develop an accessible streetscape design guide which meets the needs of all people, of all abilities. While surveying is a good starting point, end users must play a direct role in the creation of transportation networks to ensure the contribution of feedback and first hand experience necessary to create inclusive streetscapes and mobility networks.

Dan Akins

Assistant Director Parking & Field Operations

Stony Brook University

By creating a transportation system that is central to quality of life and well-being, providing connections to employment, goods and services, health care, education, social activities, recreation, and cultural activities. while increasing access to mobility options, enhancing opportunity in low-income communities of color, and supporting a clean environment.

Andy Santos

Director, People and Culture

SpotHero

Technological innovation within the parking industry has made a positive impact in transportation equity, enabling drivers to use apps and websites that allow them to easily find and reserve parking that meets their unique needs. Whether that need is a preferred parking location, a specific price range, or just having the ability to reserve parking in advance, technology has made parking more accessible and less stressful for drivers.

Charles de la Chevrotière, Urban Planner

Executive Director, Business and Mobility Strategies

City of Montreal’s Agence de mobilité durable (Sustainable Mobility Agency)

The principle of equity generally encompasses five elements: social justice, equal opportunities, fair treatment, equitable access, and reparation of injustices. The Agence de mobilité durable believes that it is on this last aspect, reparation of injustices, that the parking and mobility industry can have the most impact on transportation equity. For example, better management of the curb will allow the development of bus reserved lanes, in order to promote efficient and reliable public transport, or bike paths to make cycling safe and friendly for all, not to mention all the others possible uses, such as pick-up / drop-off zones, or terraces, which also require street space.

Maggie Vercoe

Senior Vice President, Customer Experience

T2 Systems, a Verra Mobility Company

I believe in developing parking technologies that break down physical and cultural barriers, creating opportunities for everyone to thrive fully. Creating features that address accessibility—from parking reservation applications to multilingual interfaces and even the insightful data generated and leveraged through tech—empowers customers to create more inclusive facilities for their parkers. I would encourage using surveys or interacting directly with patrons to learn more about each of their specific needs and allow feedback to be your guide for attaining the most equitable operation.

Equity for Persons with Disabilities

A Practitioner’s Guide to Disability Sensitivity

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA is a unique and beautiful place. According to recent U.S. Census Bureau data, it is home to a diverse population of nearly 700,000 residents and hosts about 440,000 inbound workers.1,2,3

The U.S. Census Bureau estimates in 2021, there were nearly 43 million Americans with disabilities, 80% of whom lived in urban areas like the District.4 While the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination and provides the same rights and opportunities as everyone else, it can only do so much to promote inclusivity.5

Under Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser’s leadership, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) tries to fill that gap through training and support for disability sensitivity.

Disability sensitivity covers basic etiquette and inclusion practices for individuals who interact and work with individuals with disabilities. Understanding

By Zachary Smith, Xavier Davis, and David Carson Lipscomb

disability sensitivity requires us to delve into the intricacies of our perceptions of others, both conscious and unconscious. Imagine a world where our understanding of disabilities transcends mere labels, where we perceive individuals not through the lens of their conditions but through the richness of their experiences.

Unfortunately, people with disabilities have faced a challenging history with transportation services and facilities and continue to do so today. DDOT’s Equity Statement recognizes that the District residents,

visitors, and commuters we serve have unique needs, and those needs should be considered in all aspects of transportation planning, design, and implementation processes to promote accessibility and avoid inequitable outcomes. Simply put, everyone not only has the right to safe, accessible transportation but also deserves it

To drive that point home and ensure it is integrated into both DDOT’s work and the processes by which we accomplish it—whether it be planning, design, execution, or community engagement—DDOT’s Equity and Inclusion Division (EID) has developed mandatory training to teach best practices for interacting with people with disabilities. Additionally, EID periodically hosts training on various topics related to equity and inclusion that are open to all agency employees.

The following practices, derived from these trainings, will assist transportation professionals and others in working with persons with disabilities and embracing disability sensitivity.

Avoid Unconscious Bias

Most people assume they are free of prejudice and bias and evaluate others objectively.6 However, relying on shortcuts by making assumptions and drawing conclusions about others without conscious awareness is common because it requires less mental energy. This is referred to as “unconscious bias” and can lead to preferences for or prejudices against people based on certain characteristics such as perceived disability, gender, age, or race. These unconscious biases may not necessarily reflect or align with an individual’s beliefs or values, but they influence judgment and actions that could potentially lead to negative behaviors or assumptions. Learning to consider the needs of persons with disabilities involves understanding and being open to multiple special considerations to avoid unconscious and perceived biases.

Use People-First Language

When referring to a person with a disability, always put the person first and identify the individual as a person who is blind, a person who is deaf, or a person with an intellectual disability. Using people-first language prioritizes a person’s humanity and describes their disability as a characteristic rather than their entire identity. Further, transportation professionals should

Melissa Yates, CAPP

Click here to find out why Melissa earned her CAPP and how it impacted her career.

The Leading Credential in Parking & Mobility

I made some long-term, wonderful industry connections that have served my career to this day. My 2010 CAPP class has been my support throughout this past decade, and have proven to me that it is not just the content, but the relationships that are important.

Table 1. Examples of People-First Language

Instead of:

Say:

handicapped, vulnerable, afflicted with person with a disability visually impaired blind or low vision

hearing impaired deaf or hard of hearing confined to a wheelchair, wheelchair-bound wheelchair user or scooter user

mentally retarded, slow, special needs

mentally ill, crazy

Handicapped Parking

always be mindful and careful not to assume that a person does not have a disability because it is not obvious. A goal of inclusivity is to make everyone feel welcome and a part of the group.

Persons with disabilities may use terms such as handicapped, wheelchair-bound, or mentally ill to describe their condition or abilities. While you may encounter others who use these terms, they are considered derogatory when a transportation professional describes someone. It is always appropriate to ask if it is ever unclear what language, etiquette, or practices are acceptable.

Embracing disability sensitivity goes beyond avoiding offensive language or challenging biases. Good practice involves actively seeking to understand and learn from diverse experiences. It requires us to recognize the vast spectrum of abilities within the disability community and celebrate the resilience and strength often accompanying these experiences

intellectual or developmental disability

mental health condition or mental health disability

Accessible Parking

Communicate Effectively

The Americans with Disabilities Act requires public entities to ensure that all programs, services, benefits, activities, and facilities operated and funded are fully accessible to persons with disabilities. Consider various accommodations to ensure persons with disabilities have access to community meetings or advisory groups. Examples include providing auxiliary aids and services to make communication with people with disabilities as effective as communication with people without disabilities.

When communicating with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, remember the following practices.

● Speak clearly, and in the same tone of voice, you would use with someone who is hearing.

● Always look directly at the person who is deaf while they are speaking and not at the sign language interpreter.

● Do not assume that the person can read your lips. Only about 30% of speech is visible on the lips.

● Let the person choose how they want to communicate with you.

● Do not assume that everyone knows sign language.

● Do not assume that those who use sign language will know spoken or written English.

Additionally, if someone is having difficulty speaking, be patient and honest if it is difficult to understand them. For example, ask the person to repeat what they are trying to say using different words or move to an area with less background noise.

If your organization has an ADA coordinator or staff dedicated to equity and inclusion or community engagement, consider contacting them before working

with the public. Also, get into the habit of inviting them to meetings or events where their expertise may be useful or requesting training for staff regardless of whether there is a specific need to work with people with disabilities. Normalizing best practices in all settings can go a long way toward ensuring staff are always prepared to serve all needs and represent your organization well.

Express Empathy, Not Pity

It is important to empower individuals of all abilities and not make anyone feel incapable. To do this, it is important to consider the following information:

● Remember to always speak directly to someone with a disability instead of talking to a companion.

● Wheelchairs and scooters are part of a person’s personal space, so do not lean or hang on to someone’s mobility equipment.

● Ask before offering assistance, and be prepared to accept “no” as an answer.

Disability sensitivity is a journey of continuous learning, unlearning, and fostering empathy. It calls for a shift in our collective mindset, urging us to see beyond labels and recognize the shared humanity that unites us all. By confronting conscious and unconscious biases, choosing inclusive language, and embracing education, we pave the way for a society that celebrates diversity in all its forms. Let us strive for a world where disabilities are not viewed as limitations but as part of the rich tapestry of human experience.◆

Good practice requires us to recognize the vast spectrum of abilities within the disability community and celebrate the resilience and strength often accompanying these experiences..

ZACHARY SMITH is an Equity and Accessibility Program Analyst at DDOT. He can be reached at zachary.smith1@dc.gov

XAVIER DAVIS is the Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator at DDOT. He can be reached at xavier.davis@dc.gov

DAVID CARSON LIPSCOMB is the Curbside Manager at DDOT. He can be reached at david.lipscomb@dc.gov

REFERENCES

1. Quick Facts- District of Columbia. U.S. Census Bureau. Accessed January 26, 2024. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/DC/ PST045222

2. On the Map- Inflow/Outflow Analysis. U.S. Census Bureau. Accessed January 26, 2024. https://onthemap.ces.census.gov/

3. Equity Statement. District Department of Transportation. Accessed January 26, 2024. https://ddot.dc.gov/page/equity-statement

4. Disability Rates Higher in Rural Areas Than Urban Areas. U.S. Census Bureau. June 26, 2023. https://www.census.gov/library/ stories/2023/06/disability-rates-higher-in-rural-areas-than-urbanareas.html

5. What is the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)? ADA National Network. Accessed January 26, 2024. https://adata.org/ learn-about-ada

6. Understanding ableism and negative reactions to disability. American Psychological Association. Accessed January 26, 2024. https://www. apa.org/ed/precollege/psychology-teacher-network/introductorypsychology/ableism-negative-reactions-disability

The Role of the Regulator in

Mobility

By Randy Topolniski, CAPP

RIDE SHARE

The Winnipeg Parking Authority’s Vehicles for Hire Office

Management

Developing a Regulatory Framework for Ride-Sharing Services

One of the factors driving the Province of Manitoba’s decision to shift responsibility for VFH regulation to the municipalities in 2017 was the rapid increase in the popularity of ridesharing. While global operators like Uber and Lyft introduced many cities to this new mobility service, Winnipeg took a slightly different path. Like several other Canadian provinces, Manitoba requires drivers to purchase liability insurance through a single government-owned provider, the Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation (MPIC). One of the basic operating principles of MPIC is that only a vehicle’s registered owner may purchase insurance on that vehicle. Furthermore, vehicles typically must be insured under only one classification at a time (i.e., a personal vehicle or a transportation service vehicle, but not both).

The Manitoba public insurance model has never caused an issue with taxis or limousines since the company offering the service generally owns or leases these vehicles. They spend most of their time on the road providing for-hire transportation. However, most major ride-sharing companies base their service delivery model on part-time drivers using personal vehicles. To accommodate these operators, ride-sharing companies will typically purchase a fleet insurance package to cover drivers in their own vehicles whenever they provide on-demand transportation through the company’s app. Because of Manitoba’s driver and vehicle insurance rules, both Uber and Lyft chose not to enter the Winnipeg market immediately.

Winnipeg was able to avoid many of the pitfalls faced by other municipalities during the rapid spread of ridesharing, an industry with no shortage of self-described disruptors.

The absence of the two largest ride-hailing providers meant that Winnipeg was uniquely positioned for smaller local firms to enter the market, provided they were willing to operate under the existing public insurance model. The WPA’s VFH office worked with several Canadian-owned startups to establish an appropriate regulatory framework for ride-sharing service providers, including driver criminal record checks, vehicle safety standards, and regular reporting of trip data.

In the end, MPIC established a plan that allows drivers to purchase insurance for set ‘time bands’ when they intend to use their personal vehicles to provide for-hire transportation services. After several years of discussions and working to understand Manitoba’s insurance model, Uber began operating in Winnipeg in July 2020. However, the WPA’s work with smaller ride-sharing providers from 2017-2020 meant that the City had already established solid footing as a regulator when larger firms entered the local market. As a result, Winnipeg was able to avoid many of the pitfalls faced by other municipalities during the rapid spread of ridesharing, an industry with no shortage of selfdescribed disruptors.

Taxicab Driver and Passenger Code of Conduct

To ensure the WPA’s role as a regulator was starting off on the right foot, the City of Winnipeg conducted a public engagement survey on VFH safety and accessibility in 2018. The survey results suggested that

passengers and drivers could benefit from a formal Code of Conduct to set behavior and business practices standards during on-demand trips. After further consultation with passengers and industry stakeholders, including taxi drivers, owners, and dispatchers, the Taxicab Code of Conduct was approved in 2020. Copies of the document in both English and French are now posted in all licensed Winnipeg taxis and available publicly on the City of Winnipeg website (winnipeg.ca/ vehiclesforhire/pdfs/taxis/WPA-Code_of_ConductBIL.pdf).

The Code of Conduct clearly outlines drivers’ and passengers’ rights and responsibilities. The document addresses safety and security (e.g., using seatbelts and displaying a valid taxi license), payment methods, and some elements of professionalism and customer service, such as a requirement for drivers to be familiar with major routes and destinations throughout the city. The Code of Conduct is a living document that may be updated occasionally based on feedback from passengers and drivers. It helps to establish a common understanding for both parties. It serves as a helpful supplement to the City’s Vehicles for Hire By-law, which may not be familiar to all passengers and drivers. Development of the Code of Conduct was funded through a per-trip Safety and Security surcharge at no cost to taxi drivers or owners.

Winnipeg WAV Centralized Accessible Dispatch

The WPA always seeks opportunities to improve the accessible transportation network by removing as many barriers as possible for persons with disabilities and accessible service providers. When the WPA took over regulation of the VFH industry, the ratio of taxi licenses (both standard and accessible) to population was insufficient to serve the community’s demand. To fill this gap, in 2018, the WPA announced that 60 new accessible taxi operating licenses would be issued, with eligibility limited to operators using wheelchair-accessible vans. The VFH office received more than 3,000 applications and held a lottery to award the new licenses.

After further consultations with the accessibility community, advocates, and the VFH industry, it became clear that many passengers requiring accessible vehicles were continuing to face significant wait times. Passengers were often forced to call several dispatchers

to order an accessible vehicle, taking the first one to arrive. This worsened wait times by having multiple vehicles assigned to a single passenger, with only one of them providing the ride.

Recognizing the need and following the increase in wheelchair-accessible van capacity with the addition of the new licenses, further consultations were held, and a plan was developed to improve on-demand accessible VFH service. In May 2022, the WPA’s VFH office launched the Winnipeg Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) on-demand centralized dispatch system.

In partnership with Winnipeg’s two largest taxi companies, Winnipeg WAV employs a third-party software platform to run a dispatch system dedicated to on-demand accessible trips. VFH drivers may run the WAV platform in parallel with their regular dispatcher, allowing them to accept ride requests from either source. The Winnipeg WAV system sends the closest available, accessible vehicle, regardless of the dispatch company with which it is affiliated. Winnipeg WAV is also being used to ease pressure on the City’s accessible public transit service, Winnipeg Transit Plus. 20% of the trips booked through Winnipeg WAV in 2023 were made in support of Transit Plus riders.

“The Winnipeg WAV has been a transformative service for many users. It has streamlined the process for obtaining accessible service by creating a single point of contact, accessible by phone, website, or through the app, so that customers no longer need to call multiple

2,500 2,000

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service providers to obtain a ride,” remarked Grant Heather. “It also allows small service providers access to a much larger market and equips their vehicles with technology they may not otherwise be able to afford. This program is truly a win-win all around.” Popular destinations for the Winnipeg WAV service include hospitals and other healthcare facilities, shopping malls, and entertainment venues.

Participation in Winnipeg WAV is voluntary for accessible drivers and accessible vehicle owners. To account for the additional upfront capital investment and greater time commitment required to provide wheelchair-accessible service, accessible vehicle owners and drivers can earn financial incentives based on customer service ratings and other trip metrics. In 2023, a total of $234,072 was paid to drivers and owners providing this accessible service. A per-trip accessibility surcharge funds these incentives and other program costs.

In 2023, 13,213 trips were provided through Winnipeg WAV. As the system continues to gain popularity, this number is expected to increase in the coming years. Regarding customer satisfaction, 95% of passengers who booked their trips through Winnipeg WAV gave the service at least four out of five stars. The Winnipeg WAV program is only the second of its kind in Canada.

Indigenous Cultural Competency Training for VFH Drivers

The WPA’s VFH office is committed to supporting reconciliation efforts with Winnipeg’s Indigenous peoples. It has been acknowledged that the Indigenous

VFH office has worked to implement transportationrelated items in the Calls for Justice raised by Canada’s National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous, Women, Girls and Two Spirited People (MMIWG2+). First and foremost is a new Indigenous Cultural Competency training program for VFH drivers.

The approach to developing this training was Indigenous-led and focused on decolonization, centering relationships to end violence, and being a partner in recognizing Indigenous power and place. The VFH office held workshops to consult with the Indigenous community leaders and advocates to understand better the difficult and often traumatic experiences and truths faced by the Indigenous community in accessing transportation. The training program, developed and delivered entirely by Indigenous community members, is now mandatory for all licensed and registered VFH drivers. By December 2023, more than 300 VFH drivers had received this training, with 330 more scheduled for the first quarter of 2024.

The training has also been delivered to members of the City of Winnipeg’s new Community Safety Team. Launched in 2024, the team is designed to work alongside Winnipeg emergency services, safety patrols, and social agencies in protecting public safety while supporting vulnerable residents in urgent need. Patrols will initially take place in and around the Winnipeg Transit system. https://www.winnipeg.ca/news/202402-16-inaugural-cohort-safety-officers-celebratedduring-graduation-ceremony

The eight-hour in-person training program, which is funded through a per-trip safety surcharge fee, has been very well received by members of the Indigenous community and VFH drivers. The Indigenous Cultural Competency training program also serves to raise the collective awareness of all City of Winnipeg staff and elected officials and reaffirms the need to end violence against the Indigenous community, particularly women, girls, and Two-Spirited people. This training is the first of its kind for VFH drivers in North America.

Parking, Vehicles for Hire, and Mobility Management

The Winnipeg Parking Authority has evolved steadily since it was created in 2004. We’re now responsible for parking operations, enforcement, and regulating Winnipeg’s vehicle-for-hire industry. The WPA also manages the administrative review process laid out in The Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Act that Winnipeggers can use to appeal tickets issued for 960 different offenses in 22 city by-laws

with fines of up to $1,000, and we take the lead on collecting outstanding fines on behalf of 10 city departments.

Building on its success as a regulator of the local VFH industry, the WPA intends to continue integrating other aspects of transportation and mobility management wherever possible. The agency is in the final stages of developing a five-year strategic plan considering parking, on-demand transportation services, active transportation, transit, curbside management, and infrastructure to support zero-emission vehicles. The WPA’s VFH office has also recently approved an operating license for Winnipeg’s first Indigenous-owned and operated ride-sharing company, Ayangwamizik, which translates to be safe.

As the WPA’s General Manager, it has been very rewarding to help improve the City’s mobility options in a way that addresses the needs of all Winnipeggers, particularly those in the Indigenous community and anyone who requires accessible transportation. Being named Global Regulator of the Year by the IATR shows that the City of Winnipeg’s decision to integrate VFH regulation with its parking authority to create a more holistic mobility management agency was the right move. ◆

RANDY TOPOLNISKI, CAPP , is the General Manager of the Winnipeg Parking Authority. He can be reached at randytopolniski@winnipeg.ca.

The Winnipeg Parking Authority is in the final stages of developing a five-year strategic plan considering parking, on-demand transportation services, active transportation, transit, curbside management, and infrastructure to support zero-emission vehicles.

VFH operators receiving the new Indigenous Cultural Competency training

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Accessibility Working Group

By Jason Sutton, CAPP & Matthew Kennedy, CAPP

FOR MILLIONS OF AMERICANS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES,

the inability to park near destinations can significantly impact their ability to lead independent lives.

The Accessible Parking Coalition (APC), established by the International Parking & Mobility Institute (IPMI), is on a mission to eliminate disabled placard and plate abuse and improve access to parking for people with disabilities.

As a collaborative research center, the APC aims to learn from and partner with stakeholders throughout the industry, including through research, case studies, model legislation, and public education. In serving its mission, the APC, working with the IPMI, conducts an annual Parking & Mobility Accessibility Survey, designed as a yearly project to understand the current state of accessibility and identify specific opportunities for improvement.

Up Against a Persistent Challenge

Improving accessibility across the board has been a longstanding endeavor, particularly in the realm of parking for people with disabilities. Despite the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, which outlawed transportation discrimination, ensuring accessible parking remains a persistent challenge. Municipalities are tasked with the formidable responsibility of providing accessible parking for individuals with disabilities, accommodating the needs of an aging population, and addressing widespread misuse to ensure that accessible parking spaces are available for those who truly require them.

According to the Accessible Parking Coalition, 69% of people with disabilities encounter difficulties finding accessible parking, with 96% emphasizing the importance of parking availability for leading independent lives. Additionally, 52% have opted not to undertake trips due to concerns about parking availability.

Making Accessible Parking More Accessible

Navigating the complexities of accessible parking, particularly on streets, poses significant challenges in identifying suitable locations that meet accessibility requirements.

Monitoring the availability of on-street ADA spaces and regulating free, time-limited parking for vehicles with valid placards remains arduous. Introducing no

Working Group Survey Results

On behalf of IPMI’s Accessibility Working Group

time limits may exacerbate the temptation to abuse accessible spaces, necessitating measures to prevent misuse by individuals without disabilities. Furthermore, curbside space constraints exacerbate the frequent abuse of accessible spaces, with compliance enforcement and deterrence of misuse requiring the investment of substantial resources. In many cases, addressing this issue may not appear to be a priority despite its significance in ensuring legally mandated access.

Survey Methodology and Questions

The Parking & Mobility Accessibility Survey engaged owners and operators spanning various market segments, collectively representing more than 150,000 full-time equivalent personnel. These respondents manage a significant sum of over 1,300,000 parking spaces, including 15,000 accessible spaces. Additionally, the survey incorporates insights from expert respondents from diverse fields, including planning, consulting, design, technology, and supplier organizations. (See Figure 1.)

Of those surveyed, 44% of respondents bore primary responsibility for accessible programs and policies. A further 31% were partially responsible, and the remaining 25%

reported they were responsible for external support. On a scale of one to five stars, respondents’ average response was three in answering the question, “How well is the industry meeting the needs of patrons that require accessible parking?”

(See Figure 2.)

FIGURE 1. Survey Respondent Summary

FIGURE 2. Responsibility for Accessible Programs and Policies

FIGURE 3. Supply Assessment of Accessible Spaces

When examining the accessible spaces in their organizations and rating the quantity and availability, each bucket received three out of five stars. Detailed feedback revealed that 10% of respondents have a significant oversupply of accessible parking spaces, 18% reported more than needed, 16% reported less than needed, 10% reported significantly insufficient supply, and the remaining 47% reported having the appropriate supply within their organization. (See Figure 3.)

The pricing of accessible spaces provided came back with 60% appropriate, 8% underpriced, and 5% less than appropriate. Looking at the marriage of supply and demand, nearly 80% reported that their organizations were meeting or exceeding the needs of accessible patrons, with the municipal sector at 78% and

FIGURE 5. Meeting Needs of Accessible Patrons

FIGURE 6. Accessible Programs and Policies: Assessment of Value and Effectiveness

FIGURE 4. Pricing Assessment of Accessible Spaces (of those with paid parking)

university environments registering 76%. (See Figure 4.)

For organizations where no payment is required for the use of accessible spaces, space availability decreased, and respondents reported that they were less successful in managing availability or meeting their patrons’ needs for accessible parking. (See Figure 5.)

Moving to Programs and Policies

Survey participants manage and support a robust roster of programs and policies listed here in descending order of bandwidth: signage (84%), enforcement (82%), pay-by-cell (79%), electric vehicle charging (77%), license plate recognition (76%), data collection (73%), payment for use (73%), extended time limits (68%), meters that support accessibility (63%), benchmarking (61%), marketing (61%), coordination with law enforcement (53%), no time limits (52%), validations for accessible placards (52%), coordination with community partnerships (39%), streetscape improvements (35%), coordination with community organizations (28%) and with the DMV (26%). (See Figure 6.)

In evaluating the programs’ and policies’ value and effectiveness, it is important to note that more than 80% rated charging for use (paid parking) as the most valuable program, with the second most valuable program at 93% for enforcement and signage at 92%.

Planned and needed programs deliver insight into the focus areas for the near future. Of constituents surveyed, 30% planned or desired to implement data collection and benchmarking into their programs, both of which ranked as 90% valuable and effective.

Regarding the locations and level of service provided, on-street accessible

parking was the most challenging for all respondents at 47%. This number increased to 85% for cities and municipalities without corresponding increases for off-street parking. For jurisdictions that do not charge for accessible spaces, the difficulty in managing on-street accessible parking increased to more than 90%.

(See Figure 7.)

Overall responses indicated that deterring placard abuse was the

most challenging (66%) priority. For municipalities that offer free accessible parking, the difficulties uptick in severity with nearly 100% reporting deterring abuse as the largest problem, followed closely by nearly 75% focused on preventing theft.

(See Figure 8.)

It is worth noting that not all organizations that do not charge for accessible spaces collect data. Nearly 50% had no information on data abuse, while nearly 60% had no data on theft. Across

FIGURE 7. Locations of Accessible Spaces

FIGURE 8. Challenges to Providing Accessible Parking to Meet Patron Needs

both categories, a further 16% indicated that they were unsure, signaling that those lacking data could be closer to 65%-75%. In looking at market segments and levels of service, relevant findings show that transient uses appear to be more challenging than monthly or repeat use cases: transit (31%), downtowns (31%), restaurant (29%), tourist (27%), residential (29%). (See Figure 9.)

Insights and Observations: Enhancing Parking Accessibility

In the quest to enhance accessible parking for those who truly need it, survey respondents provided invaluable expertise that emphasized three critical areas: Placard Data, Design, and Technology; Planning, Design, and Construction Expertise; and Legislation and Policy Needs.

1. Placard Data, Design, and Technology

In the realm of Placard Data, Design, and Technology, experts advocate for state policies enabling the request for additional credentials or identification to match disabled plates or placards, ensuring the rightful user occupies the parking space. Respondents emphasized the crucial role of technology in tracking placard registrations to combat abuse effectively and put forth proposals, including the use of electronic tracking

systems for placards and mandating identification cards with matching permit numbers for plate or hangtag holders.

Additionally, transitioning towards user-activated permit systems was noted as a way to deter abuse and address transferability issues often associated with physical permits. Other technology enhancements, such as employing camera enforcement in ADA zones, were deemed vital to curbing fraud. Lastly, on the topic, experts also stressed the importance of states issuing placards resistant to replication or alteration, acknowledging the current ease of abuse in the system.

2. Planning, Design and Construction Expertise

In the domain of Planning, Design, and Construction Expertise, survey participants’ focus was primarily on bolstering technical proficiency among contractors concerning ADA requirements, specifically pertaining to stall design and construction, an undertaking that entails implementing robust quality control measures to ensure adherence to standards.

There was also an overarching recognition of a need for drawing upon more industry expertise in ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) and building code compliance to navigate the legal framework and scope of ADA projects effectively. The survey results highlight the importance of product manufacturers specifying if their equipment or products meet relevant ADA requirements, along with detailed installation location specifications for accessibility. For instance, understanding what attributes render a pay station accessible, including considerations for height, slope, and area requirements, is crucial. Further, the persistent lack of infrastructure or design modifications, whether for on-street parking or garages, was identified as a significant obstacle for individuals reliant on accessible spaces, emphasizing the urgent need for improvement in this area.

3. Legislation and Policy Needs

In addressing Legislation and Policy Needs, the most critical support identified to stimulate change revolved around implementing meaningful ADA placard reform.

FIGURE 9. Data Availability on Accessible Parking Abuse

This entails the enactment of substantive laws and policies by state officials to institute a two-tier placard system and collaboration with entities such as the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), FTA’s Civil Rights Division, and state DMVs, as well as community and local organizations to devise strategic plans aimed at tackling the challenges associated with placard abuse.

Efforts should concentrate on establishing appropriate reforms that discourage such abuse. However, a significant barrier lies in garnering the understanding of elected officials regarding the extent of abuse and the demand for effective solutions. While factual data can be somewhat persuasive, achieving understanding will require national lobbying efforts to raise awareness of the optimal approach.

Despite the legal framework provided by the ADA, ensuring equitable access remains a persistent challenge, particularly in the context of parking accessibility. (See Figure 10.)

This call to action among the survey’s findings is rooted in a deep sense of collaborative and technological solutions as the key to resolving these issues and advocates for supporting and uplifting companies and individuals dedicated to the cause. A concerted push for policy changes at both the state and federal levels, along with a focused endeavor to educate elected officials on the significance of addressing placard abuse and the strategies available to combat it, was identified as the best place to start. By aligning efforts across various sectors and emphasizing the importance of collaborative solutions, meaningful progress can be made in reforming legislation and policies on placard abuse.

Advancing Accessibility Through Collaboration and Advocacy

The survey results conducted by the APC, together with IPMI, underscore the need for action to enhance accessible parking for individuals with disabilities.

Advocating for policy reforms at both state and federal levels, along with educating elected officials on the significance of combatting placard abuse, is a vital strategy to effect change. By aligning efforts across various sectors and emphasizing the importance of collaborative solutions, parking and mobility professionals can elevate access to parking for people with disabilities.

MATTHEW KENNEDY, CAPP , is a parking industry executive and a member of IPMI’s Accessibility Working Group. He can be reached at matthew.kennedy@gmx.com

JASON SUTTON, CAPP , is Senior Vice President, Parking and Mobility Solutions, for Duncan Solutions, LLC, and a member of IPMI’s Accessibility Working Group. He can be reached at jason.sutton2@duncansolutions.com

FIGURE 10. Respondnts’ Needs Relevant to Accessible Parking, Policies, and Programs

DRIVING EQUITY

DDOT’s Revolutionizes Curbside Management Signworks Platform

By Ty’on Jones, MPAP

Introduction

IN THE DYNAMIC REALM OF URBAN PLANNING, i ntegrating transportation equity into everyday operations has emerged as a critical priority. The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) leads this charge. The groundbreaking Signworks Platform has revolutionized the management of curbside assets across all eight wards of the District and spearheaded operational efficiency and transportation equity. With thousands of roadway sign service requests annually, DDOT recognized the necessity for a transformative solution, leading to the development of the Signworks Platform in 2016. This digital program, built in house, was born out of collaborative efforts across multiple DDOT divisions and initially focused on safety sign repairs but rapidly evolved into an indispensable component of DDOT’s roadway signs standard operating procedures.

Genesis of Signworks

In 2016, roadway signage emerged as a priority asset for many of DDOT’s team, given its crucial role in regulating curbside activities and ensuring public safety. In response to public reports of damaged signs, DDOT developed a GIS database system in collaboration with an outside vendor, and the Signworks Platform was conceived. The primary objective was to ensure the upkeep of DDOT’s vital signage infrastructure. The development of the Signworks Platform marked a significant milestone in DDOT’s ongoing efforts to modernize its asset operations and embrace innovative solutions.

Impact on Curbside Management

Engaging with various divisions within DDOT, including Curbside Management, Traffic Engineering and Safety, and Field Operation, DDOT’s IT team resulted in valuable insights that shaped the functionality of the Signworks Platform. By incorporating the roles and responsibilities of each division, the platform was tailored to meet the diverse needs of a multitude of stakeholders involved in the signage management process.

Efficiency at Its Core

The Signworks Platform boasts various features designed to enhance efficiency and streamline operations. The search function enables DDOT staff to identify and manage specific signage digitally, facilitating projects like the District’s “20 is plenty” campaign. This campaign required DDOT to identify all 25 mph speed limit signs on local streets and swap them with 20 mph signs. Instant asset edits allow for prompt adjustments to asset data, ensuring accuracy and integrity. Program customization ensures a smooth workflow, requiring staff to input utility information before installations, which is required before excavating in the District.

Precision in Asset Management

One of the Signworks Platform’s key strengths is its ability to facilitate precision in asset management. Through AI technology, assets are identified and digitized within the GIS program. The platform’s capability includes allowing instant edits to ensure accurate data representation. For instance, when a sign on a wood post is visually identified as being on a U-post in street images, staff can promptly edit the data. This maintains program data integrity and enhances the quality-of-service request resolution by providing additional installation information to the installer.

By leveraging technology to address community needs and enhance transparency, DDOT has set a precedent for transportation agencies nationwide.

Customization for Enhanced Operations

Program customization takes center stage when new assets are requested for installation. DDOT’s IT division has tailored the platform to require staff to enter clearance date information before installations. This customization facilitates a more organized workflow, allowing work orders to be scheduled according to these clearance dates, ensuring a smoother and safer installation process. It also allows field operations leaders to better coordinate the fabrication and installation of requested work.

Broader Impact

Beyond mere service request resolutions, the Signworks Platform has far-reaching implications for community well-being. By aligning sign replacements with resident requests, DDOT can execute bulk work orders that improve reflectivity, enhance safety, and ensure compliance with regulations. This proactive approach to curbside management ultimately enhances the quality of life for residents across the District and helps maintain government assets in good repair.

DDOT’s Commitment to Equity

Transportation equity lies at the heart of DDOT’s mission, reflecting a commitment to addressing historical disparities and fostering inclusive communities. By utilizing the Signworks Platform, DDOT ensures that its operations are not only efficient but also equitable through proactive projects. This proactive approach to equity in operations underscores DDOT’s dedication to social responsibility and creating resilient urban environments.

In 2021, DDOT’s staff meticulously inspected 3,648 segments within the District that had not received any service requests in the past five years. This targeted identification initiative addressed neighborhoods that historically reported fewer than average roadway sign service requests. Interestingly, the wards with the most identified segments coincidentally aligned with historically underserved neighborhoods across the District.

DDOT staff spearheading this project demonstrated remarkable efficiency by generating over 4,400 asset work orders using the Signworks Platform. To put this into perspective, the Curbside Management Division, operating concurrently, created 600 work orders within the same timeframe. The proactive nature of this project’s work orders was instrumental in enhancing safety, equity, and accessibility throughout the District. These project-specific work orders were seamlessly integrated into the fabrication and installation pipeline alongside regular work orders. This project resulted in the production of new MUTCD-regulated signs, replacing missing signs and supports, and installing brighter, more noticeable safety signs in residential neighborhoods. Such comprehensive improvements would not have been possible without Signworks, which enabled efficient planning and execution of these impactful projects.

Conclusion

The Signworks Platform represents a paradigm shift in curbside management, embodying DDOT’s commitment to efficiency and equity. By leveraging technology to address community needs and enhance transparency, DDOT has set a precedent for transportation agencies nationwide. As cities grapple with urban planning challenges, programs like Signworks offer a blueprint for building more inclusive and equitable communities in the 21st century. The Signworks Platform stands as a beacon for curbside management and a holistic and inclusive approach to urban planning in the 21st century. ◆

TY’ON JONES, MPAP , is the Acting Associate Director of the District Department of Transportation’s Curbside Management Division. He can be reached at tyon.jones@ dc.gov

This proactive approach to curbside management ultimately enhances the quality of life for residents across the District and helps maintain government assets in good repair.

Greater Columbus Convention Center

June 9-12, 2024

WELCOME TO COLUMBUS, OHIO —a city that dreams big! Columbus was built on bold ideas and an innovative spirit, which makes it the perfect host for the 2024 IPMI Parking & Mobility Conference & Expo. The Greater Columbus Convention Center sits at the center of the “Five on High” neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences at many only-inColumbus venues and facilities. A “green and clean” city, Columbus will provide you with one-of-a-kind culinary and cultural experiences, and IPMI will provide you with a top-of-class parking and mobility experience that is unrivaled anywhere. Keep reading for a general overview of the event and visit IPMI. parking-mobility.org for all the details.

Conference Education Program

No one offers Conference Education Programs like IPMI; this year is no exception. We’re looking forward to presenting education sessions in many different styles to give you the most options for learning possible! Don’t forget to collect your CAPP points from the sessions that offer them.

It’s all here: Frictionless, touchless, EV/AV, curbside, technology, staffing, motivating, micro-mobility, transit, and parking. Visit IPMI.parking-mobility.org to see the full schedule of education sessions by day/time.

Making the Most of Your Conference Experience

First time or lots of times? We have tips to help you make the most of your Conference experience.

Download the conference App. The #IPMI2024 app puts your personalized schedule, conference floor plan, room locations, session and event descriptions, exhibitors list, and other pertinent information at your fingertips. Be sure to read up on the education sessions and plan your conference experience!

Get social. Don’t wait until you arrive. Ensure you are tuning in to all our social channels, so you do not miss any updates or news. Connect with other attendees using the hashtag #IPMI2024 and get involved in the discussion in the online Forum community.

Networking

There is no better networking in the parking and mobility space than at #IPMI2024. It’s just that simple. No matter your organization, market sector, or line of business, the people you need to connect with to achieve success awill be here. Peers to exchange knowledge with, vendors to learn the newest innovations from, and consultants to help guide you into the future—the most brilliant minds in parking and mobility will be in the room. Conversations in the halls, between sessions, over dinner, and throughout #IPMI2024 will get you talking to the people you need to know, reconnecting with old friends, and sharing experiences and solutions. Don’t miss:

● CAPP Classic Golf Tournament: Experience the Golf Club of Dublin with your colleagues while supporting the CAPP Scholarship Program! All are welcome; no prior golf experience is needed! Transportation, beverage carts, lunch, and awards are included, and all profits benefit the CAPP Scholarship Fund and CAPP Program.

● Shoptalks: Claim your seat at the table! Join peers from your industry sector for these open forums and discuss challenges, solutions, and successes. Join others facing the same situations as you and your team. Exchange ideas and solutions and build a peer network that will last your whole career.

● The IPMI Expo. The Expo floor is where innovation lives. All the newest in parking and mobility technology, products, and services will be on display at the largest Expo floor in the industry. Meet experts from our supplier and consultant communities and witness their expertise in action. Find the leading new products and providers to bring your

organization into the future of parking and mobility. See p. 66 in this issue for a complete list of exhibitors.

● Facility Tours. IPMI’s 2024 program gets you out of the Convention Center and into one of our Facility Tours, where you will get a bird’s eye view of a live parking and mobility operation. These tours are not included in your registration fee but can be added during registration. Choose from:

● Municipal Facility Tour—City of Columbus

● University Facility Tour—The Ohio State University

● Airport Facility Tour—John Glenn Columbus International Airport

● Shared Mobility Bike/Scooter Tour—City of Columbus

● General Sessions. Get to know colleagues from around the world during these all-in sessions, including a powerful Keynote presentation, this year’s awards, and much more.

Pack wisely. Columbus’s temperatures in June are usually in the 80s during the day and the upper 60s at night—they are described as pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze for most of June. But we all know how chilly conference centers tend to be, so plan to dress in layers. When it comes to shoes, consider opting for comfort over style. Columbus is a laid-back, casual city that welcomes everyone as they are!

Prepare to connect. There will be many opportunities to network at the IPMI Conference & Expo. Bring your business cards to facilitate info swaps. Better yet, create a contact card for yourself on your phone and share via AirDrop or text message.

Ready to go? Visit IPMI.parking-mobility.org for the latest details and to register for the event.

Strategic Partners

IPMI’s Strategic Partners create elevated opportunities for the parking & mobility community and help bridge the difference between the ordinary and the extraordinary. Together with their support, we can continue to grow and advance the parking & mobility profession. Learn more about why these companies are some of the leading and cutting-edge providers in the industry.

IPS Group, Inc.

#1124

Flowbird #1005

Flowbird’s cloud-based solutions help our clients ease traffic congestion and efficiently manage their parking and transit systems. Our significant expertise and strong investment into research and development allow us to deliver products and digital services that will help us improve individual journey experiences and make our communities better. Our solutions portfolio includes multi-use kiosks, single/dual space meters, off-street solutions, mobile apps for payment and guidance, and electronic permits.

HUB & TIBA, Brands of FAAC Technologies #1112

Experience the future of parking with our flagship products: Jupiter/JMS (HUB) and X60/SPARK (TIBA) systems. What sets us apart? Our commitment to excellence, powered by innovation and customer satisfaction. In today’s dynamic environment, adaptability is essential. Our customizable solutions offer unparalleled flexibility, meeting modern parking demands seamlessly. Explore our offerings at www.tiba.hubparking.com and let us customize success for your parking needs. Let’s open new worlds of possibilities together.

IPS Group promotes Smarter Parking for Smart Communities™ through its Fully Integrated Smart Parking Ecosystem that includes single and multi-space meters, vehicle sensors, enforcement and permitting applications, and mobile and contactless payment options, all connected to a web-based data management system with real-time analytics and business intelligence reporting.

IPS helps operations of all sizes unify parking resource planning, management, and data-driven decision-making with one proven solution. 877-630-6638 | ipsgroup.com

LAZ Parking #603

LAZ Parking is the largest, fastest-growing privately owned parking operator in the United States and a pioneer in digital parking technology. LAZ has been providing parking management and transportation services since 1981 and operates over 1.3 million parking spaces in over 3,550 locations in 39 states and 458 cities in the U.S. We leverage our national network of parking facilities to offer cutting-edge, tech-enabled solutions, working across a variety of industries.

PayByPhone US Inc. #1203

PayByPhone’s aim is simple: simplify your journey so you can focus on what matters most. A wholly owned subsidiary of Germany’s Volkswagen Financial Services AG, PayByPhone is one of the fastest growing mobile payments companies in the world, processing over $740 million USD in payments and over 5 million downloads annually. Available in over 1,300 cities worldwide, PayByPhone helps millions of drivers easily and safely pay for parking without dealing with coins, lines, or fines.

Scheidt & Bachmann USA, Inc.

#1233

Scheidt and Bachmann, a global supplier of parking systems offers an open digital solutions platform for parking and mobility hub management with entervo. With a multitude of APIs, entervo offers individual possibilities and options for innovative, future-based and investment-safe business models. The parking management system can be smartly integrated into existing systems, in-house or third-party, and thus becomes part of crossindustry concepts. For more information visit scheidt-bachmann. de/en/parking-solutions

SKIDATA, Inc. #1237

SKIDATA is an international leader in the field of access solutions and their management. More than 10,000 SKIDATA installations worldwide in ski resorts, stadiums, airports, shopping malls, cities and amusement parks provide secure and reliable access and entry control for people and vehicles. SKIDATA is at the forefront of driving innovation in its core customer segments and offers turn-key solutions from a single source. SKIDATA is waiting for you, reach out to us at us.insidesales@skidata.com

Southland Printing Co., Inc. #1037

For over 60 years, Southland Printing Company, Inc., has been focused on quality. From our tickets to our technology, we have served the parking and transit industries as a trusted and reliable partner.

From the press room to the boardroom, Southland Printing Company, Inc., has been fully engaged in the business success of our customers - in all 50 states and over 49 countries. We look forward to an exciting future with you!

SP+ #1403

SP+ develops and integrates industry-leading technology with best-in-class operations management to deliver mobility solutions that enable the efficient and time-sensitive movement of people, vehicles, and personal travel belongings. Our tailored solutions, delivered through our Sphere™ technology and AeroParker platforms, enhance the consumer experience while improving the client’s bottom line. With over 20,000 team members located around the world, SP+ is committed to providing solutions that make every moment matter for a world on the go.

T2 Systems #1213

T2 is the largest provider of parking and mobility solutions in North America. With nearly 30 years in business, T2 serves more than 2,000 customers and maintains the largest Customer Community, upwards of 8,000 active members. T2 helps universities, municipalities, operators, healthcare campuses, and transportation hubs generate revenue and operate efficiently with a comprehensive, integrated suite of solutions featuring touchless and contactless capabilities.

Accessibility and Equity with Passport

Providing more equitable parking payments options in Grand Rapids, MI

As a leader in unified parking and curb management, promoting accessibility in transportation is an ongoing commitment for Passport. By actively addressing a city’s challenges and implementing inclusive practices, we can contribute to a more accessible and equitable mobility ecosystem.

Grand Rapids, MI, renowned as America’s “Best Beer City,” is a vibrant destination with plenty to offer, including its distinct parking app, MOTU. In 2018, the City partnered with Passport to introduce MOTU, inspired by the City’s motto “Motu Viget,” translating to “strength in activity,” at over 3,600 on-street spaces citywide.

“It’s exciting to watch the data in real time and the information on our user base helps influence our on-street methods.”

–

Jennifer Kasper, City of Grand Rapids

Since launching, Grand Rapids has continued to enhance the customer experience by working with Passport to provide more equitable payment options:

Closed-loop wallet feature

Allows users, whether they are part of the banked or unbanked communities, to preload funds into their accounts so they can pay for future parking sessions without a credit card.

Interested to learn more?

Enhanced gateway services

Enables app users to transact using Apple Pay or Google Pay. Jennifer Kasper, Mobile GR Assistant Director for the City of Grand Rapids, saw adoption of this feature skyrocket from zero to 25% in less than six months.

Tell us about your parking and mobility goals and we’ll be in touch.

Opening Welcome Event

Come one, come all! Step right up and prepare to be dazzled!

Welcome to our spectacular 2024 IPMI Conference & Expo opening event at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

Enjoy the beautiful indoor and outdoor gardens, dynamic exhibitions, artwork, and more. Dive into the world of the carnival, with Columbus Zoo animals and lively entertainment around every corner. Visit our midway attractions including a dunk tank, indulge in local fare, and capture memories at our whimsical photo booth.

Thank you to our Bronze sponsors!

Date:

Sunday, June 9

Time: 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Attire: Casual

Transportation will be provided from Conference hotel locations. Please see mobile app for details. Admission is included with Full, Pre-Conference Course, Booth Staff, and Sunday Daily registrations. Additional tickets will be available for purchase.

Exhibitor Listings

Expo Floor Plan

Charity Spotlight

IPMI HAS A LONG HISTORY OF GIVING BACK to our extended community and supporting our members’ efforts to do so as well. This year, we have two partnerships to share these efforts with all our Conference attendees, in addition to our ongoing fundraising to support the CAPP scholarship. Read on to find out more about our partnerships to support CAPP scholarships for eligible candidates, and our partnerships with Duncan Solutions and HONK For the full Charity Partner Profiles, please visit our #IPMI2024 Conference & Expo Website.

Supporting Social Mobility

Duncan Solutions and Boys & Girls Clubs

DUNCAN SOLUTIONS supports mobility on our roads and in our communities. At the 2024 IPMI Parking & Mobility Conference & Expo, we will host members and staff from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio. Their participation will give them unique, direct insight into our dynamic industry and its many career paths. Our visitors will join us at Booth 933, and we will take them on tours of the exhibit hall to meet and interact with attendees. We will also contribute $10,000 to their Club organization.

This is our third consecutive year of partnering with local Clubs during the IPMI Conference & Expo.

● In 2023, we hosted more than 70 guests from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County. We donated more than $41,000 to the Clubs, including more than $16,000 from partners before, during, and after our silent auction event.

● In 2022, we welcomed guests from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Louisiana. We donated over $29,000, including $3,000 from partners, enabling the Clubs to buy and distribute additional school supplies to their members.

Please join us in this important effort by visiting Booth 933 to make your own contribution and to share your career advice and industry expertise with our Club visitors. For each business card we collect, we will contribute an additional $5.! Thank you for your partnership in helping local youth realize their full potential.

Donate to Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio..

Duncan Solutions hosts members and staff from Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County at the 2023 IPMI Conference & Expo.

Charity Spotlight

IPMI and HONK Sustainability Program

IPMI AND HONK are once again partnering in sustainability efforts and outreach to the local community. When exhibitors participate in #IPMI2024, thousands of products will be packaged and shipped for use on the exhibit floor. After the show, many exhibitors will leave their items on the show floor due to excessive return shipping costs. As in previous years, we will gather these materials and donate them to a local Columbus charity in conjunction with the Greater Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau. This year, we aim to continue to increase our outreach and the amount of donations to the community.

To achieve this goal, we ask for your participation. We encourage you to leave show items that you do not plan to ship back on the event floor so we can donate them to a local charity on your behalf. In doing so, you can reduce shipping costs and carbon emissions from transportation.

Your items will be distributed to the United Way of Central Ohio.

The United Way of Central Ohio is made up of your neighbors, co-workers, and friends. It is a collaboration of donors, volunteers, organizations, and experts—UNITED around the shared

sense of purpose to reduce poverty in our community. Founded in 1923, the United Way of Central Ohio is one of the largest United Ways in the country. It brings together more than 40,000 donors, advocates, and volunteers because when we speak and act together, we have the power to do more, and our impact multiplies.

United Way of Central Ohio is focused on fighting poverty by investing in the most effective partners that get results through a network of more than 90 local nonprofit partners.

Save money, save the environment, and help the community.

If you would like to donate materials, please bring your donation to the designated area in the Expo Hall on Wednesday, June 12. IPMI will coordinate the pickup and delivery of these items to the United Way of Central Ohio. If you would like us to get items from your booth, please email us at exhibits@parkingmobility.org. ◆

Preferred donation items are:

• Show bags, pens, and notepads.

• Promotional and giveaway item.

• Furniture and household items.

• Bottled water.

Support CAPP Candidates to Advance the Profession

CAPP is respected worldwide as the leading credential in parking and mobility. CAPPs represent the best of the industry advancing the profession and leading with innovation, professionalism, and expertise. Anyone who is pursuing CAPP within the next two years or any current CAPP who has accumulated six CAPP points may apply for scholarship funding.

Your contribution goes directly to support these candidates. Candidates apply for funds to offset registration fees, travel, and lodging expenses for all IPMI Professional Development opportunities.

Call For Volunteers To Get Dunked!

Duncan Solutions has sponsored a dunk tank at the 2024 IPMI Parking & Mobility Conference & Expo’s Opening Event at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

Want to volunteer to be dunked? Or help raise money by convincing your boss or coworker that they should be dunked? Come join in on the fun for a great cause! All donors and participants will be placed in a raffle for prizes. Donations will go to the local Boys & Girls Club of Columbus.

LOOKING FOR MOORE TALENT

Brian Lozano , PE, PMP

800.364.7300 parking@walterpmoore.com walterpmoore.com

2024 State & Regional Events Calendar

MAY 6–9

Mid–South Transportation and Parking Association (MSTPA) Annual Conference & Tradeshow Chatanooga, TN

SEPTEMBER 24-27

Carolinas Parking & Mobility Association (CPMA) Annual Conference & Expo Charlotte, NC

OCTOBER 23–25

Pacific Intermountain Parking & Transportation Association (PIPTA) Annual Conference & Expo Denver, CO

OCTOBER 28–30

Southwest Parking & Transportation Association (SWPTA) Annual Conference Las Vegas, NV

NOVEMBER 5–7

California Mobility and Parking Association (CMPA) Annual Conference & Tradeshow Costa Mesa, CA

DECEMBER 10-13

Florida Parking & Transportation Association Conference & Trade Show Fernandina Beach, FL

2024 IPMI Events Calendar

MAY

MAY 7, 9

Online, Instructor-Led Learning

New APO Site Reviewer Training

MAY 8

IPMI Webinar

IPMI Technology Committee

Driving Innovation: The AI-Powered Evolution of Parking

MAY 14

Free IPMI Webinar in partnership with the Smart Growth America (SGA)

Transportation Electrification and Smart Growth in the U.S.

MAY 16

Free Member Chat CAPP

MAY 22

Free Learning Lab

How Galveston Established Texas Precedent With Ticket by Mail, Presented by gtechna

JUNE

JUNE 4

Free Member Chat Conference First Timers’ Orientation

JUNE 9-11

2024 IPMI Parking & Mobility Conference & Expo Columbus, OH

JUNE 26

Free Virtual Frontline Training Communication is Everyone’s Job

JULY

JULY 10

IPMI Webinar

IPMI Smart Transportation Task Force State of Smart Transportation— the Sequel

JULY 18

Free Member Chat New Members

AUGUST

AUGUST 14

Free Virtual Frontline Training Amplify Company Culture & Employee Engagement with Organizational Rounding

AUGUST 22

Free Member Chat Awards

SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER 5

Free IPMI Municipal Member Roundtable

Virtual Roundtable limited to municipal/ city members.

SEPTEMBER 11

IPMI Webinar

IPMI Planning, Design & Construction Committee

Planning, Design, and Construction Concerns for Modern Parking & Mobility Sponsored by Passport

SEPTEMBER 19

Free Member Chat New Members

OCTOBER

OCTOBER 3

Free IPMI Higher Education Member Roundtable

Virtual Roundtable limited to higher education members.

OCTOBER 9

Free Virtual Frontline Training Don’t call us Meter Maids!

OCTOBER 17

Free Member Chat CAPP

OCTOBER 22, 24, 29, 31

Online, Instructor-Led Learning Parksmart Advisor Training

NOVEMBER

NOVEMBER 7

Free Member Chat APO

NOVEMBER 12

Online, Instructor-Led Learning APO Site Reviewer Training—Renewal

NOVEMBER 13

IPMI Webinar

More than Just a Ride: All Electric First& Last-Mile Options

NOVEMBER 14

Free IPMI Municipal Member Roundtable

Virtual Roundtable limited to municipal/ city members.

NOVEMBER 28

Free Member Chat New Members

DECEMBER

DECEMBER 5

Free IPMI Higher Education Member Roundtable

Virtual Roundtable limited to higher education members.

DECEMBER 11

Free Virtual Frontline Training Embrace Change—Reinvent Your Parking Program

Stay up to date on industry events and activities! Visit parking-mobility.org/ calendar for the latest updates and additions.

One Price. Unlimited Value.

Announcing IPMI’s new education subscription program.

Get individual access to a full library of on-demand courses for one annual fee.

Why Subscribe?

Empower your employees to upskill. They can choose from a robust library of online learning course options. A subscription provides learners with a wide variety of industry-specific courses, all offering CAPP credits. Choose the training you want when you want it—all for one annual price. There’s always something new to discover, and courses are added and updated throughout the year.

Get access to 35 self-paced courses designed to train, upskill, and advance today’s industry professionals and tomorrow’s leaders!

Member Price: $349 per Member

Valued at over $1,700.

Want more training and on-demand resources?

Scan the

Driving Mobility Forward

Peace of mind for your parking operation.

PayByPhone’s robust platform seamlessly integrates with your parking operation creating peace of mind when it comes to offering a mobile payments program for drivers.

Our team has onboarded more than 250 clients in North America. Cities like Miami, Vancouver, Seattle, San Francisco, and Denver have been choosing PayByPhone as their partner for years, and more recently cities like Miami Beach, Cincinnati, Medford, and Glendale have chosen to partner with PayByPhone to provide a seamless parking experience, delighting their drivers.

Visit bit.ly/parking-operators to learn more about our industry-leading solutions.