5.

Site Constraints

Other site issues to be considered when evaluating a potential site for a suitable
parking facility include the following:

o Site Survey – a topographic survey of the site is a very important precursor

to develop a conceptual plan. The site survey should delineate property
lines, easements, and utility lines.

o Site Slope – The topographic information will define the slope of the site.
Sometimes the slope of a site can utilized to reduce internal ramping in a
parking structure, resulting in significantly lower costs (however, this
should be weighed against operational concerns created by the inability
to circulate within the structure). A parking structure that is built into a
hillside can also reduce the visual mass of the facility.

o Geotechnical & Soils – Obtaining a soils report with sample borings and a
geotechnical analysis early in the design process is prudent. If soils with
poor bearing capacity are present on the site, the added cost for
structural foundations can be significant.

o Codes and Ordinances – Municipal ordinances often specify setbacks,

building height and bulk limitations, floor area ratio to site area, etc. that
can significantly affect the allowable area on a site for a parking
structure. The local planning organization may also impose development
guidelines that must be followed.

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