The COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced downtown traffic and parking demand due to widespread remote work and business closures, leading to lasting impacts on parking patterns. In response, WGI and Terra Engineering conducted a comprehensive parking study in downtown Peoria, analyzing data from City departments, Heartland Parking, and field reviews. Key tasks included assessing parking occupancy, financial data, public input, and existing parking technology.

The study found a surplus in parking supply, with most off-street facilities operating below 50% occupancy and adequate capacity to meet current and future needs. Recommendations focused on optimizing parking resources through active management, including adjustments to organizational structure, enforcement, policies, and technology. The report emphasizes data-driven decision-making to adapt policies, such as fees and enforcement, to changing behaviors. As Peoria seeks to balance downtown vibrancy with future growth, the study highlights the importance of strategic parking management to ensure efficient and equitable use of resources.

Project Highlights:

• Optimizing Parking Operations
• Updating Parking Technology
• Public Survey