Henry David Thoreau said: “If you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost; that is where they should be. Now put the foundations under them.”
A modern-day version of Thoreau’s foundations, at least in the parking space, are safety and security. Rising crime — or even the perception of rising crime — emphasizes the need for preparation and vigilance in areas where customers are especially vulnerable. From a purely financial standpoint, extra safety and security measures also can reduce an operator’s liability.
And, as with so many recent technological advances. artificial intelligence (AI) will be playing an active role.
A recent article in Fast Company magazine highlights developments such as parking guidance systems in ensuring a safe customer experience while optimizing revenue.
One example they cite is the Automated Parking Guidance System (APGS) developed by TKH Security.
“Our automated parking guidance system is a smart parking solution designed to enhance efficiency, security and convenience,” said Pete Messman, TKH General Manager of North America.
Features include:
• Efficient spot location — the system accelerates parking with smart sensors, helping travelers find open spots faster.
• AI-powered security integration, the APGS integrates seamlessly into existing CCTV systems, enhancing security and surveillance while providing visibility in and between parking spaces.
• Optimized revenue — maximized through smart space utilization and dynamic pricing.
“Being featured in a renowned publication like Fast Company is a testament to the dedication and innovation of our team,” said Messman. “We look forward to continuing our journey as a leader in AI-driven parking solutions.”
Safety and Enforcement
Enforcement is another part of the equation. Companies such as Twyns work together with municipalities to ensure that safety measures are combined with IT capabilities that pinpoint hotspots and possible violations. The platform offers:
Reduced Obstruction: Targeting illegally parked cars blocking emergency access or visibility at intersections. Sensors and real-time data pinpoint violations, ensuring streets are clear.
Improved Emergency Response: Real-time data on parking violations so that emergency vehicles can navigate streets faster, potentially saving lives.
Data-driven Safety Measures: Parking violation data can reveal accident hotspots and safety concerns. Armed with this knowledge, authorities can take targeted action to prevent future incidents.
Parking lots and garages are the third most crime-prone areas in the country, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Technology and innovation presents the opportunity to better monitor, anticipate and prevent incidents, leading to safer parking.
