Intelligent Transportation Systems - City of Oakland
Intelligent Transportation Systems - City of Oakland
Intelligent Transportation Systems - City of Oakland
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ecently completed the design <strong>of</strong> a PGS for their downtown area but its implementation<br />
is pending further funding.<br />
Through advanced computer technology and electronic signs, a PGS informs motorists<br />
in real-time <strong>of</strong> the availability <strong>of</strong> parking. A PGS is comprised <strong>of</strong> three major elements:<br />
• Central Computer<br />
• Garage Electronics<br />
• Parking Guidance Signs<br />
Central Computer System<br />
The operation <strong>of</strong> the PGS occurs at a central computer system typically located at city<br />
<strong>of</strong>fices. The central computer system communicates with computers in parking facilities<br />
and electronic signs located along major streets. A typical central computer system<br />
includes a server, modems, workstation, graphics terminal, printer, and s<strong>of</strong>tware that<br />
allow for central control and management <strong>of</strong> the system.<br />
Garage Electronics<br />
Each parking facility has a computer that tracks the number <strong>of</strong> vehicles in the facility and<br />
then sends the information to the central computer system. Occupancy data can be<br />
collected using inductive loops, electrical impulses from barrier gates, or direct<br />
connection to the revenue control system in the facility. Operators at the parking facility<br />
can access a user interface to reset or update the occupancy data if needed.<br />
Parking Guidance Signs<br />
Parking guidance signs provide the real-time<br />
parking information about spaces available and<br />
direct drivers to the parking facility. Signage and<br />
graphics are located where they can provide the<br />
driver with sufficient advance notice that a<br />
decision point is approaching.<br />
Parking guidance signs are a combination <strong>of</strong><br />
conventional static signing with a small<br />
electronic sign insert, similar to DMS used in<br />
Europe (see figure to right). The size <strong>of</strong> each<br />
sign panel is commonly about 60” long, 18” tall,<br />
and 6” deep. The electronic part <strong>of</strong> the sign<br />
uses technology similar to large freeway<br />
message signs, except on a much smaller scale.<br />
Small parking guidance signs are also commonly placed at the entrances to the parking<br />
facilities to confirm to drivers the number <strong>of</strong> available spaces.<br />
PGS Recommendations - The Port <strong>of</strong> <strong>Oakland</strong> already has plans to implement a PGS<br />
in their new parking structure. The <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Oakland</strong> should also consider implementing a<br />
PGS for their downtown Convention Center or possibly at the <strong>Oakland</strong> Coliseum.<br />
<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Oakland</strong> ITS Strategic Plan<br />
43 September, 2003