Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

Walker Consultants worked with PGAL to design a new 6,000-space parking structure for the Barbara Jordan Terminal at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Walker provided functional design for the new structure, including striping and drive aisle layout. Walker also designed the parking technology systems, including a single-space Automated Parking Guidance System (APGS), and associated wayfinding. Walker also designed and managed the procurement of a new Parking Access and Revenue Control System (PARCS) for the entire airport, which added modern features, including License Plate Recognition (LPR).

Video camera sensors provide real-time occupancy information as drivers enter the airport. This technology directs vehicles to open parking spaces, reducing search time by over 80%. Walker assisted with the bid response evaluation, provided construction administration services relating to the PARCS and APGS, and performed acceptance testing of both systems following construction. These technologies eliminate labor-intensive procedures and are reliable and customizable, resulting in savings in long-term parking operations.

The functional design for the new garage considered the existing traffic patterns, the operation of the adjacent CONRAC Facility, and the peak hour flow capacity for the new garage. Vehicular circulation ramps were placed to minimize the interaction between vehicles and pedestrians and maximize the safety of pedestrians. The peak hour traffic volume required multi-lane express ramps for both entering and exiting vehicles.

The long linear footprint allows for great pedestrian access to the terminal and promotes an exceptional efficiency of 307 square feet per space. The length of the garage allows for cascading ramping systems with the upbound circulation prominent and the downbound circulation remote. The cascading ramps provide access to all six levels of the garage.

The floors are designed for positive drainage, which inhibits water from collecting on the slabs, minimizing corrosion and deterioration. Hose bibs are located on each floor, so an annual washdown can be completed. Passive security measures include long lines of sight (thanks to the lack of interior walls) and increased floor-to-floor heights, which allows for more even and consistent lighting.