Atlanta parking executive shares her love of sustainability

When I moved to Atlanta, I wanted to be close to my office, Sevananda, my favorite natural foods co-op, and my children’s school. On weekends, my favorite activity was leaving my car at home and walking to my destinations.

This may sound ironic for someone in the parking business, but I’ve always believed that Atlanta is more vibrant when cars are just one of many transportation options. Walking, biking, scooters, MARTA trains, and buses are all viable alternatives.

Living close to work promotes a more sustainable lifestyle, even if you live in an older home like I do in Inman Park. A short commute reduces our carbon footprint, and there are numerous other benefits.

It wasn’t until I read “Walkable City” by Jeff Speck that I realized how my lifestyle aligned with sustainable living principles. Speck argues that living close to work is more sustainable than commuting from the suburbs.

Living near work also provides more time to engage with the community. Long commutes leave less time and energy for connecting with neighbors and participating in local activities. Seeing and talking with neighbors improves the quality of life and fosters community engagement.

In live/work/play communities, you can walk, ride a scooter, or bike to the grocery store, pharmacy, and restaurants. While you may still have a car, parking is just another aspect of transportation.

For most people, driving and parking will always be a part of life, though the frequency may vary. The parking industry, including companies like Park Place, plays a crucial role in supporting sustainable practices. For example, our Fast Park & Relax facilities, including the one near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, have been equipped with electric vehicle charging stations for over 20 years. This initiative encourages the use of electric vehicles by eliminating concerns about running out of charge while traveling, making sustainable choices more accessible for our customers.

Parking is just one component of Atlanta’s transportation network. As we add more walking and bike trails and see more electric bikes, parking will remain essential.

We are excited to be a part of Atlanta’s journey in becoming a more sustainable city and proud of our city’s progress.

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