As we continue to navigate the current pandemic and adapt to new ways of doing things, it’s important to consider how this global outbreak has impacted the parking industry in more ways than one. Being that COVID-19 is a short-term circumstance, its effects have sparked some serious considerations for the long-term strategy of many parking facilities. Here are some of the ways parking managers can pivot and reposition themselves for the future:
Provide contactless solutions
In any parking facility, there are a number of touchpoints that are frequently used by visitors, residents, staff, and enforcement officers. These surfaces are often located at entry and exit gates, payment meters, and other access points, which are all potential areas of contamination. Thanks to technology, however, there are proactive measures that enforcement officers and parking organizations can use to address this challenge. By utilizing contactless solutions such as touchless payment, LPR scanning features, and digital chalking, both parkers and enforcement officers can conveniently interact in a safer and sanitary manner.
Although COVID-19 will eventually disappear, it is safe to say that the health and safety measures required at this time are likely to continue to some degree in the future. That said, parking organizations need to approach this concern with a long-term mindset. Having parking software tools that promote and facilitate touchless capabilities will continue to be an important asset.
Allocate more parking spaces
While working from home has become a common routine, many employees have started to return back to their physical offices, which means more parking space is required. Those employees who once relied on public transportation to commute to work, may choose to take their own vehicle to avoid larger crowds and reduce potential health concerns that come with public transit. As a result, parking availability may become a bigger consideration as more space may be required to accommodate a potentially higher volume of vehicles.
Repurpose parking resources
In the event that some businesses decide to permanently operate virtually, property managers may need to consider repurposing their parking facilities. Almost certainly, there will be situations where, for financial reasons, it makes sense for businesses to change the way they interact with their personnel. Consequently, some parking lots and parking garages will see significant increases in vacancy and therefore potentially serious reductions in parking income. In this situation, organizations will need to reassess their parking resources and find alternative ways to grow their revenue. For example, Roker’s platform provides the opportunity for businesses to monetize their vacant parking spaces by renting them out to local parkers.
It’s important for parking managers to anticipate a change in parking behaviour moving forward and be responsive to the needs of parkers within their cities. At Roker, our platform provides a contactless solution that supports businesses in meeting the short-term needs of the pandemic environment and plan for the future ahead. To learn more about how we can help, contact us here.
