Quality parking can make or break a commercial property. While the average person focuses mainly on the surfacing material, a lot more goes into a parking lot. To ensure your parking lot works efficiently and effectively, it is important to understand the different components that make up a good lot and incorporate them into your parking lot design. For the best results, consider the purpose the facility will serve.
Size and space
A great parking lot has adequate capacity to ensure efficiency. When designing the lot, you need to take into account the available space, how the lot will be used and the number of people you expect to be using it.
Next, figure out the number of parking spaces you need, determine the size of each parking spot and decide on the parking space angles. Leave sufficient clearance for car doors to open.
Flow control elements
When designing a parking lot, you want to ensure that there will be smooth flow of traffic. To avoid congestion, it should be easy for users to access, navigate and leave the parking lot.
Parking lot signs and posts direct drivers and pedestrians, while clear striping sets boundaries between parking spots. Other flow control elements to include are traffic control stencils, directional stencils, parking space stencils and crosswalks.
Safety features
The best parking lot designs are those that prioritize safety. You want to keep your customers safe while also protecting your business from premise liability claims.
Important safety features to incorporate include bollards, wheel stops, speed bumps, light poles and curbs. Ensure there is proper drainage to reduce water accumulation and minimize the risk of accidents.
Handicapped parking elements
Your parking lot design should serve the needs of people with disabilities. This will enable them to access the lot conveniently and safely.
Parking spots designated for use by people with disabilities should have clear handicap signs. Similarly, the parking spaces should be wider than the traditional ones to enable people on wheelchairs to maneuver in the space. Lastly, have ramps to allow for easy access to elevated areas.
Additional features
Other elements that make up a great parking lot are concrete sidewalks for pedestrians, barrier gates and emergency call stations. Consider adding landscaping elements such as trees, flowers and hedges to create better aesthetics.
Partner with a professional for your next parking lot project
Whether you are designing a new parking lot or revamping an old one, the team of experts at A1 Professional Asphalt & Sealing is ready to help! We are a full-service asphalt company that is committed to creating and maintaining exceptional commercial parking lots for our customers. Contact us today to learn more and to request our services.