Key Considerations When Planning Mixed-Use Parking Facilities

In busy urban areas, mixed-use parking facilities are quite common and designed for various users in a multi-purpose building. Commercial, retail, residential, or office buildings may include integrated parking spaces. Mixed-use parking garage strategies are vitally important when developing such a facility so you can adequately meet the needs of diverse customers. 

For example, as electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, having EV charging in your parking facility puts your company miles ahead of your competition. In this article, we discuss key considerations when planning mixed-use parking facilities.

FC Parking, a leader in valet parking solutions for over 20 years, offers expert mixed-use parking garage management and EV Infrastructure planning services to clients nationwide.

What to Consider for a Mixed-Use Parking Facility

When designing a new mixed-use parking facility or renovating an older structure, it’s recommended that you make detailed plans before starting. 

Here are some things to consider:

User Needs and Parking Demand

Who will be using your parking lot, and what are their primary needs? Apartment residents will have different requirements from retail shoppers or medical facility visitors. Shoppers will have faster turnover rates and shorter parking durations than residents. 

• Diverse Users – Understand that mixed-use facilities serve users with different needs and turnover rates.
• Parking Duration – Consider parking duration for different groups (e.g., short-term shoppers, long-term residents)
• Peak Parking Periods – Expect and plan for peak demands at specific times, such as business hours, weekends, or special events.

Optimizing Space and Layout

Consider the layout for your lot, parking space size and placement, accessibility, traffic flow, density of spaces, and parking efficiency.

• Density and Efficiency – Maximize parking capacity in available space; consider compact layouts or multiple levels.
• Parking Space Size – Choose the size and angle of spaces based on vehicles’ expected and layout efficiency.
• Accessibility – Comply with accessibility standards; provide spaces for those with disabilities and easy access to facility areas.
• Traffic Management – Design efficient vehicle and pedestrian flow to minimize congestion and ensure safety.

Enhancing User Experience

How can you make your parking facility more convenient and accessible for customers? Consider security and safety measures, payment options, and how your garage integrates with the mixed-use development.

• Convenient and Accessible Design – Easy navigation, clear signage, and a well-maintained facility.
• Security and Safety – Surveillance, adequate lighting, clear sightlines.
• Variety of Payment Options – Mobile apps and contactless methods.
• Integration with the Development – Integrate with mixed-use building design for visual appeal and functionality.

Sustainability and Futureproofing

Perhaps one of the most important considerations when building or renovating a mixed-use parking facility is the future of the parking industry. Mixed-use parking structure development is a significant investment, so you want to ensure your facility is easily adaptable to changing driver behaviors and consumer demands.

As part of your mixed-use parking garage management, be sure to include:

• Sustainable Design Features – Energy-efficient lighting, green roofs, rainwater harvesting.
• Technology Integration – Smart parking systems and digital reservations optimize usage and enhance the user experience.
• EV Charging Infrastructure – Electric vehicle charging infrastructure helps meet demand.

Your parking garage must be flexible to allow for future upgrades or adjustments. The more you keep up with the latest parking garage innovations, the better equipped you will be to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment. 

About Future EV Charging Requirements

At the top of your mixed-use parking garage strategies must be EV support. EV charging is becoming a necessity rather than a luxury. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, some state and local building codes now require new buildings and renovations to include a mix of parking spaces, some with EV charging stations and others with electrical equipment that would support future infrastructure for EV charging. Studies have shown that owners can save as much as 75% in installation costs by installing EV charging equipment in new buildings rather than retrofitting existing facilities. 

As nationwide standards in EV charger types and speeds rapidly evolve, parking facility managers should keep apprised of these changes to best serve their customers. 

Mixed-Use Parking Lot Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key factors to consider when designing mixed-use parking facilities?

Consider the needs of your target customers, which may include residents, shoppers, staff, and office workers. Anticipate demand, optimize the layout, and use technology to prioritize safety and convenience.  

How can operations managers optimize parking space for diverse users?

Implement technology solutions like reservation systems, automated entry and exit, parking guidance systems, and parking management software for real-time monitoring. Use efficient design practices, from an optimized layout and clear signage to designated areas. 

What technologies can enhance the functionality of mixed-use parking?

Mobile apps can automate reservations and payments. License plate recognition streamlines entry and exit. EV charging stations provide convenience for electric vehicle drivers. Parking management programs provide real-time data analytics and analysis to optimize revenue.

Partner With FC Parking to Optimize Your Mixed-Use Parking Facility

FC Parking is at the forefront of innovation, including mixed-use parking facilities. We can advise your company on how best to design a new parking garage or how to optimize your current facility with advanced technology such as EV charging and smart parking systems.

Creating successful mixed-use parking facilities requires thoughtful planning and a keen eye for detail. If you’re looking for help in making your parking solution efficient and welcoming, don’t hesitate to reach out to the friendly parking experts at FC Parking.