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WMATA Real-Time Parking
Information Feasibility Study
Chapter 4: REAL-TIME PARKING TECHNOLOGY
Video detection equipment is relatively expensive and is generally considered
cost effective only when multiple zones must be monitored. An additional degree
of cost effectiveness could result if an existing video monitor system is already
being used and maintained for security surveillance or other purposes. A single
camera setup is listed in the USDOT ITS costs database as ranging from $9,000
to $16,000, including processing equipment, but not including construction of a
structure on which to mount the camera. The NMSU survey reports a single-lane
system as costing about $5,000 for equipment and installation.
Video detection systems are used widely for traffic and security monitoring. A
video system has been installed at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s main
parking garage in conjunction with existing security equipment. The Seattle
system uses 88 cameras coupled with dedicated signage, and is capable of
directing a vehicle to the general area of available spaces. The system relies on
periodic manual counts for calibration. The system was retrofitted into
preexisting facilities and was developed in-house at an approximate cost of $400
per space.
• Microwave Radar (FM/CW)
Frequency-modulated (FM) continuous wave (CW) microwave radar systems are
widely used in highway applications but are capable of detecting vehicle
presence, as well as traffic speed and volume. FM/CW radar systems are
somewhat costly but are generally unaffected by weather. A single unit can be
configured to detect across up to eight adjacent zones.
The Mountain-Plains Consortium study “Detector Technology Evaluation”3
estimates a single unit installation as costing from $800 to $3,300 per unit. No
parking-specific implementations of microwave radar detection were identified.
Table 4-2 is a summary of the various detection technologies discussed. A cost
comparison is given, but a number of factors make it difficult to directly compare costs
between various technologies and installations. These include.
• Technological Innovations: Rapid changes in the availability and pricing of
detection equipment make it difficult to compare similar installations completed at
different times.
• Configurations and Scalability: Some forms of detection technology, particularly
those that use individual detectors for individual spaces, have costs that increase
proportionately with the number of spaces. For other forms of detection, where a
single detection unit may cover a larger number of spaces, comparative pricing
can be more difficult. Portal detection costs are driven by the number of portals
and zones, rather than the number of spaces.
• Complementary: Equipment previously installed in a facility for other purposes
could potentially be incorporated into a vehicle detection or smart parking
system. Payment stations may often incorporate loop detection, while many
garages have video installed for security purposes. The availability of already
installed equipment can significantly impact the cost of a smart parking
installation.
3
Peter T. Martin, Yuqi Feng, Xiaodong Wang. “Detector Technology Evaluation.” Mountain-Plains Consortium, 2003.
Retrieved from http://www.mountain-plains.org/pubs/html/mpc-03-154/index.php, September 2008.
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