Automated parking system launches in Zone K

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Larocque_Lynne.jpg” caption=”Lynne Laroque, a research assistant in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences, is one of the first permit holders to receive a transponder. Photo by Susan Bubak.”]Permit holders in Zone K were the first to receive transponders last week as part of McMaster's automated parking system, which will eventually be implemented across campus. The transponders are designed to open the gates that were installed several months ago.

The transponder consists of a plastic strip with Velcro strips attached to the back. The Velcro has an adhesive side that can be affixed to the inside upper left corner of the windshield by the driver's side. The transponder can be easily removed for use in another vehicle. Additional Velcro strips are available in the parking office.

A sensor on the gate reads the transponder and opens the gate. In the event of a technical problem, or if a driver needs assistance, the parking office can be reached via an intercom box on the gate. Parking staff can open the gate remotely to allow vehicles to enter.

The cost of the transponder is included in the first monthly parking pass. Additional transponders can be purchased for $20.

Visitors must press a button on the gate to receive a ticket. Before leaving the parking lot, they must bring the ticket to a validation machine to determine the cost of their parking. After payment has been received by cash, credit or debit card, the driver can insert the ticket into the machine to open the gate.

For more information about how the transponder works, please click here.