May 2021

WORLD PREMIERE: Sony AI sensors to monitor parking spaces and the number of pedestrians in Rome

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 27, 2021

Sony Europe has announced its IMX500 image sensors with AI processing functionality are at the heart of three smart city trials to be conducted with Envision in the municipality of Rome, Italy, starting in June. These aim to reduce pollution linked to city transport and accidents at pedestrian crossings.

The main objective of the trial is to evaluate and deliver an intelligent parking system using IMX500 to reduce pollution and traffic jams for those who travel to find a parking space. For this, the test seeks to assess the effectiveness of such a system, drivers being alerted via a smartphone application before being directed to the free parking space closest to the driver’s destination.

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In addition to this, the test also includes a study of smart city systems that will optimize the capacity and increase the use of its public transport network by setting up smart bus shelters, including those that go up. and get off each bus – identifying overloads to ensure better bus supply and cost optimization.

Finally, a zebra crossing alert system will be gradually activated to alert drivers when pedestrians cross, using smart low-latency lighting on the road to make them more visible with the aim of reducing city crashes on roads. pedestrian crossings.

The IMX500 is the first image sensor to incorporate AI processing functionality. The configuration used for this test makes it possible to extract real-time metadata related to information about a free parking space, the presence of a pedestrian about to cross a street, or the number of people getting on / off a street. ‘a bus. No image is stored, nor leaves the sensor, in accordance with privacy requirements.

This allows the city to reduce the required bandwidth, easily scale it up using existing networks, and lower electricity and communication costs. In addition, this system makes it possible to respond to citizens’ concerns in terms of confidentiality.

Sony Europe is committed to supporting the development and implementation of smart city projects to help cities solve their various problems through a Sensing as a Service (SeaaS) business model.

Problems of large cities: traffic, traffic jams and pedestrian safety

Traffic caused by those looking to park is seen by the city as a key driver of congestion, with the essay seeking to quantify the extent of the problem. Using Sony’s imaging and sensing technology to serve social causes in cities shows how IMX500 sensors can alleviate some of the problems faced by busy cities.

The average distance between pedestrians and vehicles is a key metric used to measure pedestrian safety. The test aims to provide a quantitative analysis and to prevent pedestrian accidents using signaling devices installed at level crossings.

Antonio Avitabile, Managing Director of Corporate Alliance and Investment at Sony, comments: “This is a clear and concrete example where Sony’s intelligent vision solution can serve the purpose of our customers while respecting the privacy of customers. people.

“Our vision is to create more sustainable and livable cities, and with the scalable IMX500 platform, we can dramatically accelerate this process. “

The technology used

Genius version smart tips have been installed in downtown Rome. A preliminary phase has been undertaken to train a neural network to identify available parking spaces as well as the number of people waiting at bus stops, entering / exiting the bus and waiting to cross or cross the road.

Each Genius smart tip consists of two sensors that monitor surrounding roads and parking spaces. The sensors send real-time data compiled by neural networks on the exact location of an open space, the presence of pedestrians and the number of people queuing at bus shelters.

The exact location of the free parking space data is broadcast in real time using the smart trick. The data is then immediately processed by the sensor integrated into the smart tip, using neural networks, and sent to the partner company’s cloud software platform, Envision. The coordinates of the location of the free parking space are overlaid in real time on a map that is displayed on a mobile device used by the driver on their way to the area.

The presence of pedestrians is measured and compared at different locations. The neural network system detects pedestrians at the zebra crossing and a light signal is sent to the drivers to alert them.

Smart bus shelters

Data on queue length and people getting on and off the bus is processed by the smart tip sensor through the neural network and sent to the Envision software platform, which aggregates and updates it. the provision of staff managing the public bus network to improve the planning and scheduling of the bus transport network. An “overcrowded” merit figure is provided to signal when the bus is operating at full capacity in order to avoid overcrowded buses, better manage the transportation network, and improve the commuting experience for citizens.

The trial is being carried out in the city of Rome in collaboration by a number of start-ups from the Italian ecosystem and with the support of Sony Europe.

Parking garage

Amherst councilors support rezoning of downtown parking garage

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 26, 2021

AMHERST— City Council is laying the groundwork for a private parking garage, or one built in partnership with the city, on a downtown surface lot between North Pleasant and North Prospect streets.

Councilors voted 11-2 Monday in favor of the recommendation to rezone the city-owned portion of the CVS pharmacy parking lot, where there are 70 spaces, after receiving a written appeal to take action from District 4 Councilor Evan. Ross and District 3 Councilors George Ryan and Dorothée Pam.

“The high-profile nature of a parking structure can alleviate the Amherst parking lot perception problem, relieve other parking lots that often reach capacity during peak hours, and relieve the residential streets adjacent to downtown,” wrote the advisers.

District 1 Councilor Sarah Swartz and District 5 Councilor Darcy DuMont voted against the measure.

Under the proposal, 0.68 acre “parcel 14A-33”, as known from assessors’ maps, would be rezoned from general residence to general business. The current land is considered non-compliant with the city’s zoning because the general residence does not allow “commercial or public parking” or a parking garage.

The adjoining land that CVS owns, with several free parking spaces for customers, would not be part of the rezoning.

Ross said the idea is to get a garage with no investment from the city.

“The city would provide the land to a developer, but the developer would put in the money to build and operate the garage themselves,” Ross said.

The vote requires the planning board and community resource committee to hold hearings by July 28, and then submit written recommendations within 21 days of the hearings.

The Amherst Business Improvement District, which has partnered with the city to unveil a Destination Amherst plan that included the possibility of a new downtown parking garage in early 2020, supports the change in zoning.

BID Executive Director Gabrielle Gould said if rezoning was approved and then a request for proposals for a public-private partnership, sometimes called a PPP, began, the hope would be to have a long-term lease. limited to the sole development of a Parking Garage.

“If the city council does this, the BID intends to submit its own proposal to develop a garage in a P3 with the city, funded and operated by the BID with the support of local stakeholders,” said Gould.

Gould said other private entities could apply as well and that it would pick up a long-overdue conversation that will address concerns about parking, development, commerce and rebuilding Amherst after the downtown pandemic.

The only parking structure in Amherst is the 188-space Boltwood Parking Garage, opened in 2002 at a cost of $ 5 million.

Numerous parking studies have been carried out over the years with concerns that mixed-use buildings constructed in the municipal parking district, and not required to provide on-site parking for tenants, create a demand for parking. Boltwood Place, Kendrick Place, and One East Pleasant have all been opened in recent years, and two new buildings with apartments and commercial space on the ground floor are under construction or in the permitting phase at 26 Spring St. and 11 East Pleasant St.

At-Large Councilor Alisa Brewer said she understood the zoning change was concerned that the property could be used for other purposes. But with the city retaining control of the land, Brewer said she couldn’t imagine a circumstance in which a parking lot for renters would be built.

Pam said the stops will play a role in the development process. Residents of North Prospect Street have previously expressed concern about the increase in traffic on the residential street from a garage. DuMont said she is concerned that the city may have to incur expenses even if the city’s money is not used to build a garage.

Scott Merzbach can be reached at [email protected].

Parking garage

Council suspends parking garage plan | local government

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 25, 2021

The Charlottesville City Council will consider alternatives to building a new downtown parking lot after discussions at a business meeting on Tuesday.

After hearing from the public, council decided it would vote on a resolution at its June 7 meeting on how to move forward with the parking deal with Albemarle County on a proposed complex joint judiciary. Council members agreed that they would like to explore other options before proceeding with the construction of a parking garage.

In December 2018, the city signed an intergovernmental memorandum of understanding with the county to redevelop the Levy Opera House building and adjoining site at 350 Park St. to serve as a co-located courthouse complex.

The agreement contains a number of provisions and specifically requires the city to provide the county with 90 first-floor parking spaces for its exclusive use in a new downtown garage to be built nearby.

The city must begin construction no later than May 1, 2022, and have spaces available by November 30, 2023. The proposed garage project is estimated at approximately $11.3 million.

If the city does not construct the garage by November 30, 2023 or within one year of completion of the General District Court’s project, whichever is later, Albemarle County may elect to the city to provide 100 spaces in the Market Street garage at or below the second level, or that it transfer its half interest back into the East Market Street parcel, authorize the county to use the property for parking and pays the county.

As part of the courts’ agreement, the city purchased property from the county in the parking lot at 701 E. Market St. to build the garage.

The city purchased an additional parcel for the project, where a Lucky 7 convenience store and Guadalajara, a Mexican restaurant are currently located.

Funds spent to date on project planning and development total approximately $1.5 million.

During Tuesday’s business session, Chris Engel, the city’s director of economic development, presented two options to city council: The city can either go ahead with the project or drop it.

Engel cautioned against abandoning the project and presented two alternative options that would still respect the agreement with the county.

If the council chooses not to proceed with construction of the garage as planned, Engel said the city could potentially build a smaller garage of around 140 to 200 parking spaces on the plot currently occupied by Lucky 7. and Guadalajara. It would cost between 6 and 8 million dollars.

Or, the city could build a 30- to 40-space parking lot in that space, Engel said. It would cost around $1 million.

This last option would require the demolition of the Lucky 7 and Guadalajara for the construction of eight additional parking spaces. The city currently has 32 parking spaces that are used by both companies.

Engel said either option may require a change to the agreement with the county. The parking option would not provide the 100 spaces required for county use in the agreement, so additional options would need to be explored to achieve the full number of spaces required.

“As I said before, I think spending $10 [million] at $15 million for structured parking just isn’t the most efficient and wise use of our money when we look at all of our competing needs,” Councilor Michael Payne said.

“I haven’t seen a lot of data to prove there is a serious parking shortage. Even before COVID, there were always spaces available in the Water Street garage when the Market Street garage was full,” Payne said. “It only hits peak capacity occasionally at midday on weekdays, so we’re spending $15 million to fix a problem that exists for a few hours and could always be fixed by someone going to the Water Street garage, and that’s in addition to all these other private spaces that exist and are always available, and paid parking that is always available.”

Payne said he was particularly concerned about the potential demolition of the Lucky 7 and Guadalajara. Other advisers agreed they should consider potential alternatives before doing so.

Councilor Lloyd Snook agreed with Payne that the number of parking spaces available downtown is not an issue and asked if a new facility was still needed after reporting that the county was

rethink the size and scope of the project

due to fewer cases than expected.

Engel and City Manager Chip Boyles said they’ve looked at the options and it’s not possible to move forward without creating some kind of parking lot.

Councilor Heather Hill said that while she was in favor of finding alternatives to building the garage, particularly because of the cost, she was concerned that the city would have to build a new garage in the near future, regardless of the tribunals project and that the council should take this into consideration.

Some local businessmen have spoken out in favor of building a new garage, saying it would provide much needed additional parking in the booming town centre.

Chris Eure, executive director of the Paramount Theatre, said the venue has seen renewed interest in events as COVID-19 restrictions have eased and she believes downtown venues will need additional parking . She said the theater sold over 1,200 tickets for an upcoming comedy show.

“People are really crying out to get out of their homes and do something. If it indicates that the city center will come back, they will come back, ”said Eure.

“We know when we are open and thriving, as do restaurants and stores, and we work together as a team here. Frankly, hearing the conversation that parking will not be built is almost like a kick in the stomach after working so hard to stay open during this crisis and do what we can for downtown,” a- she declared.

Eure said she was concerned that if out-of-town visitors had trouble finding parking when attending downtown events, they would not return and would frequent other venues outside of Charlottesville, such as the Altria Theater in Richmond.

Other community members have challenged the idea that there is no adequate parking downtown.

Rory Stolzenberg, a member of the city’s planning commission, said there will be more than 574 private parking spaces created next year due to the construction of buildings such as Apex Plaza, reducing the need for parking. a new large car park.

“The city is paying for 60 new spaces to be created on the empty grass field next to Champion [Brewing] it will be public parking,” Stolzenberg said in response to comments that parking spaces would be lost due to the Belmont Bridge replacement project.

Stolzenberg said January 2019 data shows that approximately 150 to 160 city employees park in the Market Street garage on weekdays, and that while there is no data for the Water Street garage , there are a lot of open spaces.

“We could offer city employees a monetary incentive to park in the Water Street garage instead,” Stolzenberg said, suggesting that county-exclusive court spaces could be located in the Market Street garage.

According to the agreement, if the parking structure is not complete by the time the General District Court project is completed, the city must provide 100 dedicated spaces in the existing Market Street parking lot as a temporary solution.

Engel said it would not be possible to put county spaces in the Market Street garage, stating that signage would have to be added to indicate that those spaces were exclusively for county use.

Parking spaces

Parking spaces for Unfair Steateries

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 25, 2021

Last week, the subject of the Steateries seemed to be a bone of contention for a few Shawnee City Commissioners as the city continues to implement items that align with its overall plan.

Shawnee City Commissioners Bob Weaver (Ward 2) and Ben Salter (Ward 6) have expressed their opposition to obstructing all parking on Main Street, which Steateries could potentially do. Shawnee city planner Rebecca Blaine said that shouldn’t be a problem because downtown has ample parking.

The guidelines on Steateries go hand-in-hand with the city’s parklet resolution that passed in 2018, Shawnee city planner Rebecca Blaine said. The parklets align with the goals of the Comp Plan, which was adopted in October 2019 and is expected to guide the city’s growth and development over the next 20 years.

Following:Proposed strategies would explore new territory for restaurants in downtown Shawnee

“Since the pandemic hit, different communities have had success adding outdoor dining to their restaurants or cafes and cafes,” she said. “It allows them to do that.”

She said many people don’t know that the area just outside of business windows — including sidewalks and roads — is the city’s grip.

“Technically, before this, we had no way for them to use much of that space, and these guidelines give them that flexibility, as long as they maintain a five-foot-wide path, which the ADA demands,” she said. “I think (the proposed guidelines) should give some parameters on how business owners can deal with it.”

Blaine presented a downtown parking map, which shows that there are 1,562 spaces available.

“It really puts into perspective how many parking spaces we have downtown,” she said.

The parklet resolution talks about how outdoor dining could be on the sidewalk; it could also use between one and three parking spaces, she said.

“We have plenty of parking,” she said, adding that staff took into consideration the seven restaurants and cafes on Main and one on Bell.

A maximum of 24 spaces would be taken at one time if those eight companies decided to use three parking spaces for Streaeries, she explained.

Following:The Shawnee Main Street Bridge, originally installed in 1930, is on track to be replaced

“They could choose not to use the parking spaces at all and just use the sidewalk in front of their doors,” she said. “I feel like we’re finally seeing some hope out of the pandemic and there are some concerns there, but we’re not clear yet.”

There are studies that show that having outdoor seating has boosted restaurants up to 87% of their revenue, compared to pre-COVID-dollar times, he said. she stated.

“I think whatever we can do right now to support our local businesses, I think it’s important that we try to do those things,” Blaine said.

Weaver said a downtown business owner complained, having issues with the current fleet.

“(The parklet) is not suitable for the public,” he said, explaining that the parklet takes up parking spaces too close to the location of the business owner.

“We have people who have residences, who park on the street all day; we don’t enforce it,” he said. “We have people backing into parking lots the other way; we don’t apply it.

He said there is also a disabled parking spot there which is not enforced.

“Until we take care of these businesses that we say we want to protect – I would hate to see us expand and say there are only 21 spaces because they can park in any of those other 1,400,” he said. “The convenience of parking in front of a store is one of the attractive natures we have in downtown Shawnee; it’s just something we have that we don’t want to take away, we want to improve it.

Blaine said she believes an indicator of downtown’s success is when a storefront’s VIP parking spot is filled.

“I think that means we’re doing really well,” she said.

Weaver said he thinks the city is mistreating merchants, the very people the city says it wants to care about.

“We don’t force them to do anything; I feel like we’re giving them options and flexibility,” Blaine said. “They absolutely don’t have to do that.”

Weaver said nearby business owners who don’t benefit from the parklet have no say in the matter.

Blaine said currently adjacent business owners on either side of a potential sponsor — one applying for a permit for a parklet — must give permission.

Weaver said there was no equity in this because it affected parking further down the street.

Blaine said she thought it was a perception issue, as there was a large parking lot in the neighborhood.

It’s a different environment, she says. Scaled, parking at four spaces in Homeland on Independence is the same distance as eight spaces downtown.

That might seem like a long walk, because the storefronts on Main are only between 50 and 75 feet each, she said.

Not all issues regarding the parklet option have even been resolved yet, as the city continues to tweak the details.

A plan has yet to be formulated on how and who (candidate or city) will move a parklet, once its permit expires — and where to store it, if necessary, Blaine said.

Salter said the city spent $2 million or $3 million improving Streetscape Main Street, and now they want to fill the parking spots.

“Now we’re filling it all in with these Steateries,” he said. “We just can’t keep filling parking spaces after spending so much money getting people downtown.”

Why Strateeries?

A few years ago, Shawnee City Commissioners began discussions about how to encourage residents to physically spend more time in the downtown neighborhood.

The use of parklets, a trend the city has already worked to establish, is gaining momentum across the country.

In late October, the first (and, so far, only) downtown parklet was built and located in two parking spots near 9 E. Main St., where it currently stands.

Open for public use, the purpose of the parklet is to provide additional gathering space outside local storefronts.

Streets are a similar amenity, although they are more directly related to use by a particular business – usually as outdoor dining areas for restaurants.

“A Steatery is essentially an outdoor public space set up in a parking bay or loading area reserved for the use of the adjacent restaurant during their opening hours – similar to a sidewalk cafe but in a parking lot rather than on the sidewalk,” proposed guidelines read. “The aim of the Steatery Guidelines is to create efficient uses of urban space, provide attractive additions to local streetscapes, invite people to sit and stay in public spaces, d improve walkability and encourage business participation in a vibrant streetscape. »

Under the proposed guidelines, a Steatery can occupy the three parking spaces in front of the sponsoring company. Just like the parklet, there are several rules and regulations regarding the construction of a Steatery and what is allowed there, such as lighting, furniture, items used to create shade and block wind, etc.

During service hours, the structure is intended solely for use by corporate customers, but outside of these hours, the Steatery would become open to all.

Permits would be required as the right-of-way (sidewalks) and parking areas are public spaces.

Commissioners deferred the item, intending to have discussions with downtown business owners before moving forward.

Watch for updates.

Here are examples of Steateries. Guidelines for these types of establishments are being discussed by the Town of Shawnee Commissioners.

For story ideas, questions or concerns, reporter Vicky O. Misa can be reached at [email protected].

Parking garage

City continues to plan for parking lot demolition

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 25, 2021

Santa Monica Housing Commissioners first declared their support for the demolition of Parking Structure 3 to make way for affordable housing in 2018, but the project was put on hold following backlash from residents and of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, two significant developments in the past few weeks have prompted city leaders to re-express their enthusiasm for the proposed affordable housing project.

Housing Commission chairman Michael Soloff said recently that the project has been going steadily since the city agreed to issue a request for proposals. The delay has frustrated many of his local commission peers, Soloff said, but a recent coastal commission decision and the city’s proposed budget have restored confidence that the project will one day come to fruition.

After hearing from dozens of local residents and stakeholders at a meeting earlier this month, the Coastal Commission unanimously upheld the city’s right to demolish the structure. Soloff said the move also enabled the city to obtain tax credits in the future that will allow it to provide a clean site for any non-profit housing provider selected to create the project.

“So that was a very important step forward in making this a reality,” Soloff said, noting that at least four different members of the Coast Commission have expressed their appreciation for Santa Monica for being willing to build affordable housing. in the coastal zone.

City staff said the next step in the process depends on restoring the Covid-related cuts to the Planning Department which could finalize the assessment of the various proposals and make a recommendation to city council. After learning that the city’s proposed budget includes funds to restore one of the two positions that were cut during the pandemic, Soloff pointed out how commissioners had already passed a motion calling for the parking structure to be a top priority. for whoever is selected for the job.

A resident who phoned the meeting commented on the need for parking in the area, but Commissioner Todd Flora described criticism as a thinly veiled attack on Parking Structure 3.

“The people pushing this petition to prevent affordable housing for former homeless people in parking structure 3 are the same cranks trying to call the school board back and they are never happy with anything,” said Flora. “And I have to tell you, it’s so frustrating because their petition literally says language like ‘We support low-income housing and housing for the homeless – but not downtown’, which means that “They don’t want black, brown, and mentally ill people downtown. Let’s go out and say it.

Flora added that it is incredibly frustrating to hear people fighting against a project that he says will clearly be of use to a number of the city’s residents as people want to hang on to a parking structure. .

“Remember, we had to cling wholeheartedly to the structure of the parking lot because we were going to put a theater there,” said Flora. “Well, the theater has become The ArcLight at the end of Santa Monica Place and it’s not even going to stay open.”

Soloff reminded Commissioners that people have the right to have a certain opinion before Commissioners Leonora Camner and René Jean Buchanan take the time to share their thoughts.

“This is an issue that I feel like Santa Monica provides a role model to be proud of,” Camner said. “I think it’s really exciting and it’s something I talk about a lot.”

Buchanon agreed.

“My initial excitement when (city council) decided to use this location for affordable housing, primarily for the homeless, which was later canceled during the pandemic, is back,” Buchanan said. “But I think the thing that’s most exciting for me…. has there been so much talk about doing something about the homeless situation, about housing the homeless; and we’ve been talking for years, and the problem has only gotten worse. For me, I think it’s a big step that the city, in this case, is going to put its money where its mouth is and actually build the housing for the only group in this community that we haven’t built a building for. housing – people who live on the streets.

[email protected]

Parking spaces

New Yorkers debate loss of outdoor dining parking spots

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 25, 2021

New Yorkers debate loss of outdoor dining parking

Monday, the New York Post posted a report revealing that about 8,550 parking spaces in New York City were monopolized by roadside outdoor dining sheds during the pandemic, according to data provided by the city. This represents about 0.3 percent of the city’s three million parking spaces.

The report launched, once again, a favorite pandemic argument for New Yorkers: Are alfresco dining sheds a welcome addition to the city’s dining scene or not? The To post spoke to restaurateurs on both sides of the argument in Astoria, with some saying this had been a necessary lifeline during the pandemic while others argued that now their customers can no longer find places to park. Residents, too, couldn’t agree on whether the hangars were a boon to the neighborhood or whether they were just causing more traffic jams.

On social media, Mayor Bill de Blasio and others echoed their support for al fresco dining. Pat Kiernan, NY1 anchor led two informal polls on Twitter to show an overwhelming number of supporters of alfresco dining. The mayor of Blasio – who was responsible for the green light of the Open Restaurants program during the pandemic – double on its position of sheds by the side of the road forever. One of his press representatives, Mitch Schwartz, added his own line to the story, Tweeter that “saving the restaurant industry would be a godsend at all costs, but cannot really waste much sleep on 8,550 parking spaces”.

Yeah I mean ~ saving the restaurant industry ~ would be a steal at any cost, but I can’t really waste much sleep on 8,550 parking spots

While we’re at it: if you run a restaurant and want to make it 8551, you can apply to https://t.co/lhTGvoXbMz https://t.co/6PA0qmqRBC

– Mitch Schwartz (@ mhschwartz10) May 24, 2021

In other news

– Bajan Yankee’s Shirwin Burrowes brings salt cod fritters and jerk pork rice bowls to Crown Heights Hunky Dory bar for a pop-up this Wednesday, 4 to 9 p.m. Pre-orders are available here.

– The upscale omakase Nakaji spot reopens its cocktail bar today, according to a spokesperson. Guests will find sake, shochu, and rare Japanese whiskeys at the bar, as well as an omakase cocktail option with three tastings of three-ounce cocktails for $ 30 per person.

–West Side Story Broadway star Ariana DeBose will perform tonight at Tavern on the Green in Central Park. The show is the first in a series of summer Broadway performances in the historic restaurant, leading to Broadway’s full reopening in September.

–Other Half Brewing is launching a line of hard seltzer starting Thursday, according to a spokesperson. The two launch flavors – All Citrus Everything and Ginger Mule – are brewed at the company’s new Domino Park site. Cans will be available at both brewery stores in New York City later this week, along with limited shipping and delivery options.

– Popular ice cream supplier Malai has moved to Governors Island for the season. Founder Pooja Bavishi will sell a range Island-exclusive weekend ice cream bars, including one with a chocolate chili cookie base, spicy peanut ice cream, peanut chikki and topped with chocolate fudge. In addition, Malai also hosts a guest chef series this summer in the company’s Brooklyn boutique. Partner chefs include Moonlynn Tsai and Yin Chang of Heart of Dinner, and Miro Uskokovic of Gramercy Tavern.

– It’s true:

Parking garage

Wall Street Parking Garage to close for repairs

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 24, 2021

The Wall Street parking garage, 45 Wall Street, will be closed for repairs May 27-31.

For this reason, Asheville Parking Services is requesting that all cars parked in the garage be removed by 8 p.m. on May 26. Cars that remain in the garage will not be towed, but there may be a delay in the exit process, due to construction. Anyone needing help getting out of the garage should dial 828-778-3216.

Several structural joints will be replaced on the northeast side of the garage. In order to complete the maintenance, both exit lanes will need to be closed for a period of time. This will take place from 8 a.m. on May 27 with the reopening scheduled for 8 a.m. on May 31.

Monthly parking lots were notified of the Wall Street garage closing and were directed to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center parking garage.

In addition, the elevators at the Wall Street Parking Garage have been repaired and are being inspected. They should be operational soon.

The city of Asheville offers many other parking options in the downtown area, including:

Biltmore Avenue garage: 404 spaces
Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Garage Asheville: 550 spaces
Rankin Avenue garage: 262 spaces

To find out the parking spaces available in real time, consult the Where is the parking page from the City of Asheville website or download The Asheville app.

For more information, visit the Parking Services Page on the City of Asheville website.

Parking garage

Construction of the new Blacksburg car park, police station in progress | Local news

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 23, 2021

BLACKSBURG – Construction of a new police station and parking lot is underway at the site of the city’s former college.

The estimated $ 26.3 million project – $ 16.5 million for the police station and $ 9.8 million for the parking lot – is expected to be completed at some point in the spring of 2022 and will be part of the redevelopment over major downtown area of approximately 20 acres of Blacksburg. site.

The parking lot and police station complex will be part of the payable site structures and will be owned by the city, with the remainder of the development to involve a mix of residential and private commercial properties.

The whole project, which was finally given the green light in 2019 after years of debate and planning between developers and several governments, is expected to further transform downtown Blacksburg.

Mayor Leslie Hager-Smith specifically addressed the need for a new police station and garage.

“As everyone knows, it took over a decade for this project to get started,” she said. “We have needed a modernized police station for probably 20 years. If someone goes there, they will understand how inadequate the facilities are. We owe it to the people who protect and serve us. I am delighted that this is about to happen.

The parking lot, Hager-Smith said, will primarily serve two needs: more parking for the general public and parking for business customers who are expected to occupy the site.

“I would dispute how many minutes are you willing to go around and look for a free parking space,” the mayor said in reference to the need to provide more parking for the general public.

Hager-Smith said part of the success of the business entities that will occupy the site – officially called Midtown after the development partnership – will depend on the provision of structured parking.

Parking will also help reduce the need for surface or on-street, which in turn will open up more opportunities for trails, gathering space and biking, Hager-Smith said.

When complete, the parking lot and police station complex will be located at the corner of Clay Street and New Church Street, a road that will be added to the old middle school site as part of the project.

The two-story police station will partially surround the parking lot, which is expected to be five stories high and provide 300 spaces, according to plans provided by the city.

Blacksburg plans to use the money he has budgeted over the years to pay for the new police station.

The parking lot will be amortized over time with new revenue generated from development taxes – taxes on meals and lodging and business licenses – and a tax district for special services that will exclusively cover the site of the old college.

The Special Tax District will require all private landlords at the site to pay an additional 20 cents over their city property tax rate.

Blacksburg homeowners currently pay a tax rate of 26 cents per $ 100 of assessed value, which translates into an annual bill of $ 260 for the owner of a home assessed at $ 100,000. This is in addition to Montgomery County’s 89-cent rate, which is an annual county bill of $ 890 for a home of the same value.

The special district will remain in place until the principal of $ 2.6 million is collected, along with the additional amount owed in interest, according to the measure approved by Blacksburg city council last fall.

Parking spaces

Veterans now have more reserved parking spaces

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 21, 2021

MOUNT LAUREL – Veterans and Purple Heart recipients now have reserved parking spaces at several township buildings and facilities.

“It’s just a great way to honor these residents who have given so much of their lives, their dedication and for their families – a simple way to appreciate them,” said Ashlyn Grisetti, Mount Laurel’s communications director.

The township on Monday dedicated a total of 12 parking spaces to veterans. Wounded Warriors Family Support Organization donated reserved parking signs placed in front of dedicated spots.

Service men and women can find reserved parking at five locations across the city: the Mount Laurel Municipal Building; Mount Laurel Library; Laurel Acres Park; memorial park; and the Mount Laurel Police Department.

A photo of the new Purple Heart veteran parking stalls at the Mount Laurel Municipal Building.

The purple-painted parking spaces were opened to veterans on Monday. The initiative took two months from planning to completion, township officials said.

Mayor Stephen Steglik said the spaces are meant to show appreciation for service members.

After:County unveils parking lot for injured vets

“As a proud son and brother of military veterans, this project was especially meaningful to me,” the mayor said. “I witnessed their dedication. In a way, it was an opportunity to thank them and their fellow human beings for their years of service.”

A ribbon ceremony is held for the new Veterans' parking lot at the Mount Laurel Municipal Building on May 17.

Before the new spaces opened on Monday, the only dedicated Purple Heart parking space was at the Emergency Medical Services station on Church Road.

Seats are available on an honor system, with the public only having to use them if they are a veteran or accompanying person.

Hector Luis Davila reports on public safety for the Burlington County Times, Courier Post and Daily Journal. He is originally from Philadelphia and studied journalism at Eastern University. Contact him at [email protected]

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Parking garage

Santa Monica residents rally against demolition of parking lot for affordable housing

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 20, 2021

There are plenty of policies that elicit impassioned rants from local voters, but there’s no subject more incendiary than the destruction of popular parking lots. This great American triumph of utilitarian design is increasingly threatened by the machinations of would-be benefactors who question the inherent value of such land use. Or, at least, so say the ‘Save Parking Structure 3’ petitioners, as thousands of residents rally to stop plans to demolish a four-story parking lot in downtown Santa Monica to make way for approximately 100 to 150 affordable housing units, 50 of which would be designated as supportive housing for formerly homeless people.

According to Santa Monica Daily Press, the California Coastal Commission last Thursday approved the demolition of Parking Structure 3, which in its current condition would have required $4.4 million in repairs to extend its life. Demolition plans date back nearly a decade with the construction of nearby parking structure No. 6, which engineering consultant Walker Consultants says more than makes up for the loss of 337 parking spaces. The original plan was to replace the parking lot with a retail or movie theater development, but the 2018 Housing Commission ultimately prioritized the site to meet the pressing demands for affordable housing in the Los Angeles metro area.

Downtown shopkeepers and homeowners are unhappy and, after taking a beating during the coronavirus pandemic-induced retail decline, fear a loss of parking spaces will have an impact significant on their results. In addition, several business owners accuse the City of not having adequately consulted or advised them of the project.

Intervenes local resident and landlord John Alle, who has taken it upon himself to collect signatures protesting the proposed plans, noting that the petitioners ‘support low-income and homeless housing, but not in the center downtown and not by removing parking.” He is not alone in his grievances; Josephine Bakis, another signatory, writes that “We need MORE downtown parking, not less. It would be absurd to use this land for social housing that shouldn’t be built on the most expensive land in town;” and in more blunt terms, Kathleen Hymes wrote that “people with MONEY should park there so that all the shops can make money Get rid of the homeless people hanging around.

While tempers will likely remain hot for the foreseeable future, the City of Santa Monica is fully committed to beginning the demolition process in 2022 and it is uncertain if this petition will ultimately have any effect. The city has not yet chosen a developer or architect for the site.

Parking spaces

Philadelphia business owners, residents at odds over city parking spots

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 20, 2021

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) – Al fresco dining has been a necessity for businesses and a sense of normalcy for the past 15 months, but some say these temporary structures could create long-term parking problems.

“We want to make it permanent, we want to keep it,” said Erin Callahan, Managing Director of The Plow and the Stars.

Callahan said the expansion of outdoor street dining has been great for his restaurant’s business during the pandemic. However, in the 100 block of Chestnut Street, some of the outdoor dining establishments have reduced one lane of traffic and taken up parking spaces. And parking garages can be expensive.

To keep people coming back to town as more and more people travel again, Visit Philly is sponsoring free parking at the Independence Mall Car Park on Saturdays if you park after 10 a.m. and leave before 7 p.m.

“You will make the reception center your first stop. You will pick up a ticket when you enter the garage, then come to our information desk and buy a ticket worth $ 8 or more, and you park for free, ”said Jennifer Nagle, vice president executive of Independence Visitor Center Corporation.

Some tourists Action News spoke with said it would bring them back to Philadelphia again.

“We saw a parking lot yesterday for $ 37 for about 90 minutes. We were like good golly,” said Parik Patel, of Midland, Texas.

“We walked about 10 blocks here to find a seat. If some of this had been free it would have been a lot easier, especially for older people who can’t walk that distance,” Jatin Patel said. , from Dallas.

Some city residents who rely on on-street parking have said alfresco dining establishments are disrupting their quality of life and would like to see meals pushed back onto sidewalks soon.

“Those igloos up the street take away about four or five parking spaces, and the problem is when the business isn’t open at night, they still occupy the spaces,” said Prince Anthony Thomas, a resident. by Northern Liberties. “So, for residents here, they don’t have spaces and have to park elsewhere. “

As the city begins to ease restrictions on masks, some restaurant managers in the city have told Action News they fear they will lose the street dinner at some point.

A city spokesperson sent Action News a statement regarding alfresco dining in the city.

“Since launching in June 2020, the Philadelphia Outdoor Dining Initiative – launched as a temporary emergency support program – has helped more than 750 restaurants generate much-needed income by providing alfresco dining. , safely. Currently, the Temporary Outdoor / LINE catering program will continue until December 31, 2021, but there may be some adjustments this year.

As we move towards a full reopening, we are having regular discussions with the restaurant business community and looking at the complex issues around what elements of the program will need to be scaled back and what elements of the program might make sense to continue in. the longest term. We have no more to share at this time. ”

Parking spaces

Parking division takes over metered parking enforcement in Norfolk

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 19, 2021

The one-hour grace period for metered parking in Norfolk ends June 1 for parking patrons as COVID-19 restrictions continue to ease.

NORFOLK, Virginia – The one-hour grace period that has been granted to help customers and parking businesses in Norfolk is ending soon as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic continue to ease.

The parking division said it would resume enforcing metered parking from June 1. This means that customers will have to start paying for their parking spaces again.

According to Norfolk City officials, the grace period began in July 2020 as part of the Open to Norfolk initiative. It allowed customers to park a bit and it was free if they parked in garages, as many businesses and restaurants only had curbside and take out orders.

Customers were also offered deferred payment options and flexible cancellations, as many things were uncertain at the start of the pandemic.

RELATED: More Parking Meters Arrive in Norfolk

As restrictions related to the pandemic begin to ease, most businesses will benefit from the use of parking spaces. Customers can pay with coins and credit cards at meters or by downloading the Park Norfolk app on their phones (only available on iPhone or Android).

The money for paid on-street parking goes into the Parking Division business fund. This helps pay for the city’s planned repairs, including cleaning equipment, LED lighting upgrades, and modern payment systems.

For more information on metered parking in Norfolk, please contact the Parking Division at 757-664-6510 or you can email [email protected].

Author’s Note: The video below has been archived since March 19, 2021.

Parking spaces

New Love’s Travel Stop adds 124 truck parking spaces to Etna, Ohio

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 18, 2021

The opening of a new Love’s Travel Stop in Etna, Ohio adds 124 truck parking spaces and 85 jobs in Licking County. (Courtesy of Love’s)

OKLAHOMA CITY — Love’s Travel Stops is now serving customers on Mount Etna, Ohio, with a new travel stop that opened May 13. The store, located on Interstate 70 at 9901 Schuster Way, adds 85 jobs and 124 truck parking spaces to Licking County. .

“We are excited to expand our extensive Ohio network by opening our 19th location in the state and adding more than 200 parking spaces in Licking County,” said Greg Love, co-CEO of Love’s. “Love’s team members are great people who care and are ready to help professional drivers and four-wheeler customers get back on the road quickly and safely in central Ohio.”

This location is open 24/7 and offers a number of amenities including:

Over 14,000 square feet;
Hardee’s (opening at a later date);
124 truck parking spaces;
76 parking spaces;
Three RV parking spaces;
Nine diesel bays;
Nine showers;
laundry room;
Speedco (opening at a later date);
Gourmet coffee beans;
branded snacks;
Fresh cooking concept;
Mobile to Go Zone with the latest GPS, headsets and smartphone accessories;
CAT scale; and
Bulk propane.

In honor of the grand opening, Love’s will donate $2,000 to the Southwest Licking School District.

The Trucker News Staff produces engaging content not only for TheTrucker.com, but also for The Trucker Newspaper, which has served the trucking industry for over 30 years. With a focus on drivers, the Trucker News team aims to provide relevant and objective content regarding the trucking segment of the transportation industry. The Trucker News team is based in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Uncategorized

Long Beach launches the installation of a solar awning in public parking lots in the city center • Long Beach Post News

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 11, 2021

Solar awning installations at three designated public parking lots in the city center are under construction, marking the first of two phases in a series of solar projects across Long Beach, the public works department said on May 7. .

The first phase of this project is part of the city’s solar power purchase agreement with PFMG Solar Long Beach, LLC, a renewable energy company, for the construction and operation of 10 solar panels in various Long Beach’s public facilities, all of which are estimated to be completed by spring 2022, officials said.

The first phase of the city’s solar energy PPA includes rooftop installations of public parking lots at City Place A (50 W. Sixth St.), City Place B (50 E. Fifth St.) and City Place C ( 50 E. Third St.), officials said.

The solar power system totals 415.2 kilowatts, capable of producing electricity equivalent to 60 homes. Officials say the project will reduce the city’s carbon footprint by about 530 tonnes as the city’s partner Southern California Edison switches to green technology to meet its goal of 80% renewable energy by 2030. The solar panels will also provide covered parking for around 130 parking spaces, officials said.

“The installation is part of Public Works’ largest solar installation effort to date, with seven more locations in the construction authorization phase,” Public Works Director Eric Lopez said in a statement.

Phase two of this project is expected to begin later this year, officials said.

Parking spaces

New Love’s brings 109 truck parking spaces to Mosheim, Tennessee

by Deena S. Hawkins on May 7, 2021

Love’s has opened a new travel stop just off Interstate 81 in Mosheim, Tennessee. (Courtesy of Love’s)

OKLAHOMA CITY — Love’s opened a new travel stop May 6 to serve customers in Mosheim, Tennessee. The store, located off Interstate 81 at 10465 Lonesome Pine Trail, adds 83 jobs and 109 truck parking spaces to Greene County.

“We are excited to open our 18th location in Tennessee and 170 total parking spaces in Greene County,” said Greg Love, co-CEO of Love’s. “This safe, clean and well-maintained location will provide customers with the value for money at competitive prices they expect when stopping at Love’s.”

This location is open 24/7 and offers many amenities, including:

Over 12,000 square feet;
Arby’s (opening at a later date);
109 truck parking spaces;
52 parking spaces;
Nine RV parking spaces;
Eight diesel bays;
Seven showers;
laundry room;
Speedco (opening at a later date);
Gourmet coffee beans;
branded snacks;
Fresh cooking concept;
Mobile to Go Zone with the latest GPS, headsets and smartphone accessories;
CAT scale; and
Dog park.

In honor of the grand opening, Love’s will donate $2,000 to the Mosheim Volunteer Fire Department.

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