Circle Less. Live More.

As Tarun pointed out in is his post, San Francisco has started a "smart parking" pilot program called SFpark. He did a good job laying out ideas around the IT aspects of programs like this, but what I find interesting is the potential impact on people's lives and the health of the city and its inhabitants.

Cars and their parking spots (or lack thereof) might be one of the most divisive topics you can possibly broach with a group of San Franciscans. There are those exist squarely in the "public transportation and bicycle" group, and others who, although they appreciate public transportation, believe in the reality that it's just not possible to never use a car. The issue paralyzes development because of unending arguments over the number of parking spots a new building should (not) have and sparks tension, and sometimes even violence, between drivers and cyclists.

I am most excited about the possibility of a successful SFpark pilot because of the change I hope it brings. Fewer collisions and arguments between bicyclists and stressed drivers who have been circling the block for 20 minutes; less double-parking on already narrow and heavily trafficked streets; fewer carbon emissions from circling and idle cars; easier access to parking when it's just not feasible to use public transportation; happier bus drivers who don't have to deal with badly-behaved drivers cutting them off to get to a parking space.

I think there is even the possibility that it will encourage more people to use public transportation. If I know that there is limited parking available where I am going and that the price of parking has increased because of the demand, I might just hop on the bus instead. And with less congested streets, the buses might actually be running on time.

This short video from SFpark nicely illustrates what the pilot is trying to accomplish, both in terms of technology and better livability.

SFpark Overview from SFpark on Vimeo.