Background

In 1996, the city of Troy partnered with Woolpert to complete a parking study for a 20-square-block of downtown. Over time, new development created an increased demand for parking, and residential concerns about insufficient downtown parking prompted the city to request Woolpert to update the study.

Challenge

Was Troy’s parking problem real or perceived? The city needed a quantifiable answer. Additionally, the city needed information about other traffic-related items included in the original downtown area study.

Solution

Because no standardized manual exists for conducting parking studies, Woolpert reviewed studies from other cities around the country to develop a methodology. Then, the project team performed a feasibility study, reviewed parking patterns, compared capacity and demand and evaluated traffic signal warrants.

Outcome

Woolpert’s study provided the city with recommendations for increasing parking occupancy. The team also provided suggestions for further studies with potential to benefit the city’s growth and expansion. The city reviewed Woolpert’s recommendations and implemented a “road diet” for the area, right-sizing four lanes into three and using the saved space to improve angled parking.

Benefits

The city of Troy continues to implement study recommendations to improve parking in the downtown area. These recommendations have led to improved pedestrian safety and slower traffic—critical components of a vibrant downtown.

Client
City of Troy

Location
Troy, OH

Challenge

• Insufficient downtown parking

Solution

• Parking study
• "Road diet"

 Services

• Traffic engineering

Benefits

• Increased pedestrian safety
• Slower vehicle speeds