Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport PARCS and Wayfinding

Upgrading Parking for the Modern Traveler

Just three miles from downtown Roanoke, Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) is a key regional hub serving hundreds of thousands of travelers each year. When the airport set out to modernize and reconfigure its campus parking lots, Walker Consultants played a central role in shaping a smoother, more intuitive parking experience.

Designing for the Future

Walker helped ROA reimagine its surface parking lots with a focus on accessibility, user experience, and emerging technology. Our team provided strategic guidance on the layout of ADA-compliant spaces, electric vehicle charging stations, striping standards, and the flow of entry and exit lanes. We developed construction documents for the reconfiguration of approximately 1,375 spaces across three lots, carefully integrating wayfinding and digital signage to improve circulation and user navigation.

Smart Systems, Seamless Access

At the heart of this project was the implementation of a fully automated, cashier-less Parking Access and Revenue Control System (PARCS). Walker assessed current technologies and delivered performance-based specifications for a cutting-edge solution that includes Pay-on-Foot kiosks, License Plate Recognition (LPR), and an online reservation system. To support the new infrastructure, we designed a fiber optic network that connects terminal operations with remote PARCS equipment.

Clear Guidance, Better Experience

Because great signage is just as important as great systems, we designed new digital and physical wayfinding to guide drivers to available stalls—before even entering the airport campus. This smart signage improves traffic flow and enhances the overall traveler experience, ensuring patrons can find ADA spaces and future EV charging stations with ease.

A Smoother Journey Begins in the Parking Lot

Thanks to these upgrades, ROA travelers now enjoy a frictionless parking experience powered by modern technology and thoughtful design. The improvements not only streamline access but also position the airport to adapt to future mobility needs.