Several maintenance and construction projects are affecting the UW Hospital and American Family Children’s Hospital (AFCH) garages this summer, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.
In fact, there will be many lights. Tucked into the list of summer work projects is a new parking guidance system for the UW Hospital and AFCH garages.
The parking guidance system uses a system of sensors, message boards, and lighting to guide drivers to open parking spaces, making it easier to find a spot. Here’s how:
Sensors installed at each parking space detect if the space is available or occupied. The sensors continuously feed information to an internal communications system that is connected to a system of LED message boards. The message boards guide drivers to areas of the garage with more parking availability.
Color-coded lights installed above each parking space indicate which stalls are vacant in each row. Different colors will also show which stalls are ADA accessible, reserved, or electric vehicle charging spaces.
“The parking guidance system is an investment in operational efficiency and patient-centered service,” said Josh Galasso, Assistant Director of Parking Operations at UW Transportation Services and project lead. “By using real-time data to guide drivers to available spaces, the system will reduce unnecessary circulation, alleviate stress for patients and visitors, and help employees arrive at their shifts more reliably.”
One estimate suggests that parking guidance systems can reduce the time spent looking for a parking space by 23–44%.
The system is expected to bring additional benefits, such as reducing traffic back-ups inside the garage and at entry/exit lanes. It should also facilitate a more efficient use of parking space by guiding drivers to underutilized areas.
“In a healthcare environment where time is critical, this technology reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional service. It also supports our broader goals of sustainability, enhanced traffic flow, and effective use of parking resources,” Galasso said.
Other nearby locations with parking guidance technology in their garages include Chicago’s Navy Pier, Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Ohio State University, and Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis.
Work on the system is already under way in the valet area of the UW Hospital garage and will continue in stages throughout the summer. Work is expected to be complete by summer’s end.
