Campus Parking

License Plate Recognition

WHAT IS IT?

LPR is a system of cameras and accompanying software, which are placed in Parking Department vehicles to scan license plates. When a scanned license plate number is not associated with a valid permit or is not being used correctly, enforcement is prompted to investigate further and potentially issue a citation.

 

CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPACTS

  • Simplify/streamline the annual renewal process – no extra trips to pick up permit, no concerns with lost/stolen mail, no waiting in line, and no extended processing time.
  • No plastic permit to lose, forget, or move from vehicle to vehicle.
  • No $120 replacement fee if permit lost.
  • Account updates are user driven and less susceptible to data entry error.

 

COST SAVINGS & COMPLIANCE BASED INCOME

Based on materials, personnel, and postage, the Parking Department will save an estimated $40,000/year. It is anticipated this alone will offset LPR expense.  Secondary financial impacts will likely prove to be the most significant outcome – increased enforcement efficiency provides incentive for compliance (everyone pays their fair share).  Because the Parking Department is 100% funded by permit, meter, and fine payment, increased efficiency and savings directly benefits parking customers.

 

ENVIRONMENTAL/SUSTAINABILITY

  • Eliminate plastic permits production - manufacturing impacts such as fossil fuels, carbon footprint of factory/facilities.
  • Eliminate disposal of expired and unused plastic permits.
  • Eliminate delivery (fossil fuel, emissions, vehicle/road wear and tear).

 

OUTCOME

Payment will still be required to park on campus, and permit holders will still be assigned to one particular lot.  Rather than displaying a physical permit, a “virtual permit” will be associated with license plates on the customer account.  Key challenges to overcome will be a culture shift in processing and reminding permit holders to keep accounts, particularly license plates numbers, accurate and up to date.