News Article

Garage Parking Updates: New Entry Systems, Event Parking and More

April 14, 2022

ALBANY PARKING AUTHORITY ANNOUNCES PARKING UPDATES, REPORTS INCREASED DEMAND FOR EVENT PARKING

Improvements include new entry/exit systems, digital payment, and updates for monthly parkers

ALBANY – The Albany Parking Authority announces updates to their garages as downtown Albany welcomes a full return of events and sees increased demand for event parking. New entry/exit systems have been installed at all 3 ParkAlbany garages which will provide several improvements for both daily and monthly parkers such as new digital payment options and faster entry/exiting on event nights. These updates come as the number of event goers utilizing the garages has seen a dramatic increase over the past three months, with parking numbers exceeding highs from 2019.

“Downtown Albany is experiencing a vibrant resurgence, and we are seeing that with the increased need for parking solutions exceeding pre-pandemic levels. The Parking Authority continues to look for ways to improve parkers’ experience while supporting economic advancement within the city. We are excited to have adopted these transformational improvements and look forward to seeing our city, residents and visitors alike take advantage of them” said Matthew Peter, Executive Director, Albany Parking Authority.

The Albany Parking Authority has installed new entry/exit systems that will help facilitate faster entry and exiting at their garages on large event nights with improved pay-on entry options and new gate automations. Tap to Pay, Apple Pay & Google Wallet can now be used for payment at all garages and parkers are now able to pay for parking directly from their phone before reaching the exit gates. Additionally, parkers will no longer need to pull a garage ticket. They can simply insert their credit card at the terminal when entering a garage, then when leaving, insert that same credit card to pay for their parking and exit.

The Albany Parking Authority has updated weekday nights and weekend parking rates. Beginning on May 1, 2022 weekday nights, starting at 5pm and weekend parking at all Albany Parking Authority garages will be $5.00 except in the case of special events. Special event rates will vary depending on the event to learn more about event parking, visit: https://www.parkalbany.com/things-to-do/upcoming-events

Parkers with monthly passes will now experience improved service with touchless entry/exit thanks to a new AVI Tag system that operates wirelessly at a garages entrance/exit to automatically open the gate. This new solution has replaced the slower and less reliable License Plate Reader system. Additionally, a new mobile app will allow monthly parkers to enter/exit the garage using an in-app QR code or via Bluetooth.

The Albany Parking Authority continues to advance improved parking solutions and is working towards additional plans, including a new nights and weekends monthly pass and a complete repaving of the Quackenbush Parking Lot.

For more information about recent garage updates, visit https://parkalbany.com/upgrades-coming-to-parkalbany-garages-including-a-mobile-app-for-pass-holders/

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About the Albany Parking Authority  

The Albany Parking Authority’s mission is to provide secure, convenient, and affordable parking in support of economic development by constructing, operating and maintaining those areas in the City of Albany: (i) operated by the APA for parking; or (ii) which use is supported by APA parking. The Albany Parking Authority manages more than 5,000 parking spaces to serve those that live, work, or visit New York’s Capital. The Authority was established in 1983 and is authorized to construct, operate and maintain city public parking facilities. The Authority receives no tax support or Federal, State, City, or private grants.