Designing a commercial parking lot is a significant investment for any business, and it requires careful consideration to ensure that the final product is safe, accessible, and meets the needs of customers and employees alike. When it comes to commercial parking lots, several important design considerations need to be taken into account, from the materials used to the layout of the lot. At Encore Pavement, an expert concrete company in Wichita, Kansas, our team is exploring some key design considerations for commercial parking lots. Learn more below!
Comply With Local Regulations and Laws
The first thing to remember when designing a commercial parking lot is to ensure compliance with all local regulations and laws. This includes zoning ordinances, building codes, and accessibility standards such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, lawsuits, or even the closure of your business. At Encore Pavement, an experienced concrete company in Wichita, our team takes these regulations into account when designing parking lots for our customers, ensuring all necessary requirements are met.
Provide Proper Drainage
Effective drainage is essential for any commercial parking lot. Water accumulating in the lot can cause damage to vehicles and create safety hazards for pedestrians. It can also result in erosion and damage to the parking lot surface over time. When designing a commercial parking lot, it’s important to include proper drainage systems to ensure water is directed away from the lot and into the appropriate stormwater management system.
Install Adequate Lighting
Don’t forget the lighting! While you may not initially think about lighting when designing a parking lot, proper lighting is another important factor to consider. Adequate lighting ensures that customers and employees feel safe and secure, particularly in the evening or early morning hours. Additionally, proper lighting can help prevent accidents, reduce crime, and make it easier for drivers to navigate the lot. During the design phase, remember to lay out the parking lot with high-quality LED lighting, strategically placed to ensure that all areas of the lot are well-lit.
Embrace Accessibility
Creating a parking lot accessible to all customers and employees is essential. This means ensuring that there are adequate, accessible parking spaces, routes to the building, and a level and stable surface for those using mobility aids. The ADA sets out specific requirements for accessibility in commercial parking lots, and failure to comply with these requirements can result in fines or legal action.
Maximize Your Space
Maximizing the space available in a commercial parking lot is important, particularly for businesses with a high volume of customers or employees. This means carefully considering the layout of the lot and the size and placement of parking spaces. Not only does this ensure that the lot can accommodate as many vehicles as possible, but it can do so without sacrificing safety or accessibility.
