From PhillyVoice · · 2m
Philly's smart loading zones now charge by the minute
The PPA expanded its camera-monitored loading zones across Center City, requiring drivers to pay through an app or face $51 fines.
In brief
The PPA expanded its camera-monitored loading zones across Center City, requiring drivers to pay through an app or face $51 fines. Philadelphia's new smart loading zones charge 10 cents per minute and use cameras to enforce rules, expanding from 22 blocks to 52 blocks in Center City. Originally reported by PhillyVoice.
PPA expands smart loading zones
The Philadelphia Parking Authority now enforces smart loading zones on 52 Center City blocks, up from 22 blocks last year. Drivers must use the CurbPass app to pay 10 cents per minute.
Where the zones are located
Smart loading zones now cover parts of Chestnut, Walnut, Sansom, Market, Third and 16th streets. The program started last year on just three streets.
How the system works
Delivery drivers create a CurbPass account and register their location. Cameras detect vehicles and automatically start charging after a three-minute grace period.
One hour limit, $51 penalty
Drivers can stay in a loading zone for up to one hour. Those who don't pay through CurbPass or overstay face a fifty-one dollar fine.
Camera technology monitors zones
Automotus cameras detect and classify vehicles to track how long they stay. This removes the need for parking officers to manually enforce violations.
Traffic speeds jump significantly
Since the program started, traffic speeds increased 28% on Chestnut Street and 32% on Walnut Street. Commercial vehicle use of loading zones nearly doubled.
“Our initial Smart Loading Zone pilot clearly demonstrates that camera technology works and has significantly improved traffic flow on two of our most congested arteries.”
Fewer cars circling for parking
The zones reduce congestion by cutting down on vehicles circling blocks looking for parking spots. This improves traffic flow and public safety.
Program spreading to other cities
Similar Automotus camera programs now operate in Pittsburgh, Los Angeles, Miami, Houston and other cities across the country.
Nearly 50,000 vehicles registered
The PPA encourages all drivers to create CurbPass accounts. Fleet drivers can register through company accounts. Over 49,000 vehicles have signed up so far.
The takeaway
Philadelphia's new smart loading zones charge 10 cents per minute and use cameras to enforce rules, expanding from 22 blocks to 52 blocks in Center City.
