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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

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