A Simulation-Based Analysis of Parking System Performance

The application of a microcomputer-based simulation model for analyzing the operation of a parking system is described as well as the model's results and sensitivity in coping with various uncertainties posed by the project's decision makers. Additional sensitivities were investigated based on an extrapolation of the natural growth of traffic flows and variations in vehicle arrival rates. The simulation model was designed to handle time headway, speed, intersections and stop signs, and peak traffic flows. The operational performance measures used for evaluating the system were the number of cars waiting at certain key intersections and at the entrances and exits of the parking structure, and the average amount of time that these cars spent waiting.