Secure parking garages may help reduce the risk of accidents for drivers and pedestrians. City Parking manages over 200 garages in New York City, and we offer management services. Here is more information about creating safe parking garage environments:
Security Precautions
Taking adequate security precautions in parking garages helps prevent unauthorized access to the space. This includes having secured entry points into the garage, such as:
- License plate recognition systems: This system works by scanning the license plate. The vehicle information is compared against a database, and it allows employees and other drivers with reserved spots to enter the space.
- Garage attendants: Having garage attendants at entry points allows them to check parking permits. This helps prevent unauthorized drivers from entering the garage.
- Self-service stations: These stations may require drivers to scan a physical permit or an app. They help save time, allowing for a smoother entry process for authorized drivers.
The physical presence of valets and other parking attendants can act as a deterrent for illegal activities such as vandalism and theft. This helps protect both drivers and their vehicles. Our parking attendants have undergone background checks, and they have received quality training.
Surveillance cameras monitor and record activity. This allows personnel to see garage activity and intervene more quickly if an incident occurs. Having security cameras can also help deter people from theft, and they provide evidence as needed. Having clearly marked emergency call stations also allows people to call for assistance.
Directional Signage
Directional signage should be visible to both drivers and pedestrians in the garage. These include arrows and signs that guide guests to building entrances, exits, or specialty parking areas. They show drivers how to navigate the garage, allowing for greater ease of traffic through entrances and exits. It also helps prevent sudden stops or other hazardous maneuvers; this helps reduce the chances of collisions. Light-up signs or larger fonts make the signs easier to read.
Signage should also show where the elevators or stairways are. Height clearance signs direct drivers with larger vehicles to appropriate parking spaces. Pedestrian crosswalks and warnings help pedestrians navigate the space, and they allow drivers to know when to slow down. Wide, clearly marked lanes can ease the flow of traffic.
Garage Lighting
Having adequate lighting in the garage makes it easier for guests to navigate the garage; this allows drivers to see other cars and pedestrians to avoid accidents. Having an efficient lighting system also allows drivers and pedestrians to see the directional signs more clearly and helps drivers identify columns and curbs more easily. This can prevent minor collisions and vehicle damage. Lighting acts as a security measure, reducing shadowy corners. It also allows pedestrians to find and walk in crosswalks easily. Consistent, bright lighting also adds to the visual appeal of the garage.
Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance allows pedestrians and drivers to access the space safely. Cleaning up trash helps prevent broken glass or bottles from puncturing tires, and it may reduce potential trip hazards. Repairing broken lights allows users to see the space more clearly, and fixing potholes helps reduce the chances of vehicular damage. Repairing cracks and other floor damage can prevent pedestrians from tripping. Clean stairwells also help lower the chances of accidents. Our team follows daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines to keep the garage in good condition.
Conducting inspections allows a management team to determine what needs to be repaired for a safer environment; this includes repainting lane lines, repairing leaks, and checking ramps and guardrails. Making sure the access gate is in good condition allows it to rise and lower safely. Payment machines and elevators should also be checked for functionality. Having a clean and functional environment helps promote more customer use.
Learn About Our Parking Garages
Taking precautions to make a safer parking garage helps reduce the chances of accidents and creates a welcoming environment for users. City Parking provides parking management services, and this includes facility maintenance and reservation management. We also help select and install Parking Access and Revenue Control Systems, which allow managers to track the amount of revenue their garage is making and make appropriate adjustments. To learn more about our parking garages, we invite you to contact us today.