The transformation towards more accessible, inclusive and sustainable cities is one of the main objectives that many metropolises around the world are pursuing. This requires a fair redistribution of the available public space, making sustainable mobility a priority and reducing areas for private vehicles.
In this context, the correct management of reserved spaces is essential, especially in areas intended for urban services such as loading and unloading, or areas reserved for PRM (People with Reduced Mobility).
Redistribution of public space
Public space is a limited resource that must be used equitably and responsibly, and it is key to take it into account in urban planning, especially in growing cities. Through the redistribution of public space, we can reduce the areas destined for private vehicles and convert them into squares reserved for different purposes or that promote sustainable alternatives: bicycle use, public transport or pedestrian areas.
As for reserved spaces, there are different types, such as those for people with reduced mobility, goods distribution, public transport and emergency services, among many others. In recent years, new needs have arisen that have increased the number of these spaces, for example, multidisciplinary spaces, spaces for shared mobility vehicles, and charging points for electric vehicles.
Limitations of traditional management systems
Generally, to ensure that these reserved parking spaces are used correctly, cities usually have identification and control systems carried out by municipal agents and local managers who, in the event of infractions such as improper parking, can call the municipal tow truck to remove the vehicle. However, these systems have certain limitations.
1. Identification takes time
The legal identification of vehicles or their owners is not very efficient; municipal agents must inspect vehicle by vehicle on inspection routes, so they do not have an agile review system. This process, which involves manual control, means that violations in reserved spaces are not always detected.
2. Resolution is not immediate
As the system does not provide real-time information, municipal authorities are unable to resolve infractions on the spot. This means that reserved parking spaces remain improperly occupied. It affects both the users who need these spaces and the overall management of parking in the city.
3. Increase in violations
The lack of control makes it difficult to comply with mobility regulations and causes disorder in the use of public space. Over time, this situation can create frustration among users who really need these reserved spaces and generate conflicts that diminish confidence in urban regulation policies.
Intelligent technologies for reserved space management
Thanks to new technologies linked to intelligent parking space control systems, it is now possible to monitor and prevent the misuse of reserved parking spaces. These technologies are scalable, can work independently or can be combined with each other to adapt to different infrastructures.
For example, detection devices, such as ground-level sensors or cameras, are placed to detect whether the reserved space is free and notify nearby users through a mobile application so that they can reach the area where it is located. In addition, real-time alerts are triggered and sent to parking zone attendants when violations are detected, such as non-payment or exceeding the parking limit, ensuring compliance with regulations.
From there, certain monitoring tools are able to provide detailed analysis of parking usage trends, such as occupancy, rotations and vehicle flows, making it easier for municipal tow trucks and sanctioning systems to take immediate action.
Parking Control Solutions
Benefits of intelligent parking solutions
Through the implementation of intelligent parking control systems, it is possible to detect the real needs of residents and visitors, especially the most vulnerable groups, in addition to other benefits that are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations Agenda 2030.
Reduction of pollutant emissions
By reducing the number of unnecessary trips by municipal tow trucks or local authorities to supervise reserved parking spaces, mobility in the city is improved and, therefore, pollution is reduced. Users have more information about the availability of parking spaces, favoring vehicle rotation and reducing the chaos generated by improper parking. This indirectly helps to reduce emissions of polluting gases, improving air quality and creating a healthier environment for both citizens and visitors.
2. More accessible and inclusive public space
By improving the availability of reserved spaces, it ensures that they are free for use by specific groups: people with reduced mobility, public transport, goods distribution and shared vehicles, among others. This makes public space more accessible and inclusive for both citizens and visitors. For example, people with reduced mobility can actively participate in the city.
3. Decrease in infractions
By effectively monitoring reserved spaces in real time, you can improve their use and ensure that they are available to those who need them. This helps reduce violations by encouraging drivers to behave more responsibly.
4. Better management of public resources
More efficient management of public resources would improve the control and use of urban space. By implementing smart technologies, available resources can be maximized, unnecessary investments in new infrastructure can be reduced, and citizen participation in city development can be encouraged.
The implementation of advanced technological solutions, such as the real-time control systems mentioned above, makes it possible to monitor reserved spaces so that they are used in accordance with the policies in place. These intelligent technologies help to improve the availability of public space, as well as facilitate immediate intervention if necessary, thanks to alerts issued to security guards in real time.
At Urbiotica, we help cities around the world to promote sustainable mobility and inclusion by ensuring that reserved parking spaces are available to the people who really need them. With effective control of city parking, it is possible to improve the management of public resources and the quality of life for citizens and visitors alike.
