feasibility study of real time parking information at ... - WMATA.com

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WMATA Real-Time Parking Information Feasibility Study Figure 4-3 Parking Information System Concept Chapter 4: REAL-TIME PARKING TECHNOLOGY System Software There are two basic choices in the procurement of a smart parking system. If the system is viewed as a single item, it can be procured through a construction contract. For these systems, the contract is typically awarded to the low bidder. Well-defined requirements are critical to the success of this approach; the requirements must adequately define every aspect of the system. Typically, the successful bidder will either modify an existing system and software to meet the requirements or contract with a third party to come in and develop a new system from scratch. The requirements of a smart parking system are typically fairly simple, so development from scratch may not be much more difficult than modifying existing software. If this project is viewed more as a pilot study and more systems related, then a qualifications-based procurement of a consultant and vendor with a separate field equipment construction contract can be used. The consultant and vendor would develop the software and manage the installation of the equipment. In both cases, it is important to fully define the requirements so that the system specified will meet agency needs. Regardless of the technology used at each station, some customized software will be needed for systems at the WMATA central offices. A smart parking system has a minimal need for bandwidth between the local server and other computers, so bandwidth and speed are much less of a concern. However, development effort beyond the typical job responsibilities of WMATA IT staff may be necessary to integrate the data into existing web sites, transmit data to other agencies, and archive historical data. The vendor would be responsible for these tasks. Page 4-16 June 2009
WMATA Real-Time Parking Information Feasibility Study Detection Technology Chapter 4: REAL-TIME PARKING TECHNOLOGY The various detection technology options are identified in the Technical Memos with costs and issues for each technology. Unless a particular technology is specified in the procurement, the vendor of an existing system will choose the technology. Wide area detection is possible with some technologies – i.e., one sensor can monitor several spaces. Newer low-cost magnetometers are likely the most cost effective approach to space-level detection. If a high level of detail in the detection system is not required, cost differences between technologies would likely be minimal, as most of the reviewed technologies have their advantages and disadvantages. Communications Technology Communication technology decisions must take into account the amount and frequency of data transmittals, the existing communications network, and the local site conditions. Communication technology between the detectors and the local server are typically driven by the choice of the detector technology and local site conditions. Both wired and wireless communication is possible. Wireless technologies are particularly well suited to the installation of systems in existing parking structures, as the need for less conduit may reduce the possibility of impacting the facility’s structural integrity. Space-level detection is generally most cost effective when using wireless communications technology, making it possible to avoid the difficulty and expense of installing new conduit and connections at each parking space. The advantages of wireless approaches are less pronounced in surface lots, where both wired and wireless communication is possible. All communications from controllers to servers and between servers should be physically connected with serial cable or fiber optic cable. The communication protocol will likely be determined by the equipment used on each end of the connection. Where possible, incorporation of the parking system communications into the agency’s existing digital communications equipment and processes should minimize long-term maintenance. Because of the low bandwidth needs, the parking information system is not expected to require expanding WMATA’s existing data communication systems. Traveler Information Technology There are two primary ways that a stand-alone parking information system can inform travelers of the status of the parking facilities as they approach a station. Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) has a relatively small range of five to 10 miles, which would typically be sufficient for a suburban parking facility. The disadvantage is that a motorist must be tuned to the correct station in order to receive the information. Dynamic Message Signage (DMS) is more passive in that the driver must pass a sign to have an opportunity to view the message. However, it may not be possible to place signs in sufficient numbers at all approaches to the facility to reach all interested drivers. Both technologies are similar in price. Additionally, in most cases, arterial DMS are owned, operated, and maintained by VDOT. VDOT is solely responsible for posting information on VDOT owned DMS. The display of WMATA parking information on VDOT DMS will require the development of a Memorandum of Understanding between VDOT and WMATA, clearly specifying the Page 4-17 June 2009
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