Garage facilities provide convenient parking spaces, and many have security measures to protect users and their vehicles. On-site staff and technology systems monitor a parking garage and make sure access is controlled. The design of facilities also helps keep drivers and pedestrians safe. City Parking manages over 150 garages, with each facility offering a range of security enhancements.
Staff Presence
A parking garage with on-site staff provides drivers with immediate support. Staff members assist drivers who have questions about parking passes or reservations. They also manage payment kiosks; this helps confirm that only paying customers enter. On-site staff supports streamlined parking procedures by directing drivers to available stalls so they can park safely and quickly.
Management verifies that all staff members go through a comprehensive training process, and this makes sure that they are capable of monitoring activity in the parking garage. Staff are given a training handbook so they understand their specific responsibilities. Before hiring applicants, management makes sure each individual has undergone a drug test and background check. This helps confirm they are qualified for the position and will assist customers and survey the garage with professionalism.
Facility Design
The design of a parking facility can enhance visibility, helping reduce accidents and deter criminal activity. Wider lanes allow drivers to navigate the garage without scraping parked vehicles. When garages have convex mirrors, drivers can better see around corners to avoid collisions with oncoming traffic. Facilities that have large open spaces prevent blind spots, so parked vehicles remain in sight of staff and cameras.
Updated parking garages may include open stairwells; these keep sightlines clear, allowing pedestrians to avoid dark, enclosed spaces. Garage management teams should also maintain lighting fixtures so that corners and stairwells remain well lit. Clear pavement markings guide individuals to pedestrian paths, elevators, and building entrances. This helps keep driving lanes clear and reduce the chance of accidents.
Wayfinding features allow drivers to quickly locate open parking spaces. Electronic displays may show real-time information, such as which levels are full and which have available parking spots. This helps drivers quickly navigate to open stalls. Users are able to avoid time spent circling the garage, which may increase the risk of collisions. Directional signage also shows drivers which level they parked on, and this enables them to quickly locate their vehicles when exiting the facility.
Technology Placement
Technology systems enhance a garage’s security, and the placement of the equipment helps make sure every area of the facility is monitored. Security begins at the parking garage entrance and should be integrated across all levels. Some technology systems in garages include:
- Surveillance Cameras: When security cameras are placed at entrances, exits, stairwells, and in blind spots, staff can easily monitor all access points. They avoid having to manually check each area and miss potential threats.
- License Plate Recognition: Some garages have license plate recognition systems. These scan drivers’ license plates before vehicles enter the facility to authenticate their information and prevent unauthorized access.
- Motion-Sensored Lights: Lighting systems automatically turn on when sensors detect movement. This allows drivers and pedestrians to avoid moving around in the dark, and it helps deter criminal activity.
- EV Charging Stations: Some garages require additional security measures to protect EV charging stations. This includes placing cameras in view of the stations and routinely monitoring them to make sure there aren’t exposed wires or water pooling nearby.
PARCS Management
Parking Access and Revenue Control Systems (PARCS) support security systems by tracking parking passes and transactions. PARCS helps verify monthly pass holders and employees; they also can prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering the facility. Since PARCS logs vehicle information, management is able to use the system to view timestamps showing when vehicles entered. This system may integrate with other security systems, such as cameras, to provide an additional layer of protection.
Use a Parking Garage With Security
Parking garages with security systems help protect parked vehicles. Enclosed facilities with gated access help control entry for paying customers and authorized users. Technology systems and on-site staff monitor the facility, and customers can receive quick assistance in the event of incidents. Well-maintained garages also enhance security by having staff replace burned-out lightbulbs and remove debris. Use the City Parking website today to search for garages near your destination and park your vehicle in a secure location.