Original Source: "Greener Parking: The Tustin Metrolink Station Parking Structure" by Matt Davis, for Parking Magazine, March 2014
Southern California freeways are some of the busiest and most congested in the world. The Orange County Transit Authority wanted to increase the capacity for commuters to utilize the Tustin Metrolink station to serve as an alternative. To do so, the station needed additional parking at their space constrained, multi-modal hub. In addition to the aesthetics of the structure, sustainability was mission critical to the project.
In addition to achieving a net increase of 508 parking stalls, the project architect and engineer Watry Design, Inc. enhanced and expanded the transfer location for the buses, GO Local shuttles and vehicular drop offs.
The final design includes a 5-level parking structure with a number of sustainable features, such as LED light fixtures with motion sensors, which allow the lights to dim to 25% power until a user approaches. These features ensure energy efficiency while a photovoltaic array on the top deck generates 85% of the facility’s energy needs. A stall counting system with dynamic signage leads to reduced vehicle idling times and less carbon emissions. Five electric vehicle charging stations support additional sustainable transportation options and drought tolerant landscaping ensures efficient use of water. Beyond the facilities design, special emphasis was placed on an accelerated design and construction schedule, as well as other best practices. For example, the existing light poles on site were removed, refurbished and reused with new light fixtures. As a result, 90% of construction waste was recycled or reused.
Matt Davis is a Senior Project Manager for Watry Design, Inc. He can be reached at mdavis@watrydesign.com.
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