Mechanical parking systems: Feasibility of implementation in HDB estates and office developments

Abstract

Parking issues may not seem significant in Singapore at present, but with the increasing population and car ownership, the problems will intensify in the near future. Indications are already showing in the sub-urban areas where rapid development is taking place. To address the parking shortage, HDB has initiated a pilot study, proposing the adoption of mechanized parking systems in HDB estates. Some respondents were positive about the new mechanism while some remained doubtful. The paper would explore the different types of automation systems available in the market and subsequently, evaluate the feasibility of implementing each system based on a set of criteria before deriving the optimal one. The paper would also seek to address the stereotype that such systems are more suitable for private developments than public ones by comparing HDB estates with office developments, before concluding with some limitations of the study.