Though sometimes considered an afterthought to an office search, parking is an essential factor in any office or warehouse buildout in South Florida. Whether Downtown or in Doral, parking has to be part of the master plan. Even with transit opportunities, cars (and traffic) are interwoven into the daily fabric of Miami.

As you consider an office renovation or new buildout in South Florida, you must develop not only a design plan for the parking lot or ramp itself but also create a budget for it as part of your office buildout.

Important Parking Considerations for Your Miami Office Project

Access and efficiency are core to any parking facility. Here are some other things to keep in mind when developing parking plans for your office project.

• The purpose of your lot or ramp – Because space is a premium, you may need a ramp versus a lot, but in either case, it’s important to consider how the parking facility will be used and by whom as you develop the size, spacing, and flow of your parking. Your lot’s purpose may also influence the thickness of pavement you’ll need.

• Accessibility requirements – Ensure extra space in your parking ramp to comply with accessibility requirements. This includes offering sufficient handicap parking spaces, ramps and curb structures, dedicated walkways, and other safety features to ensure accessibility.

• Efficiency and flow – Minimize accidents and streamline traffic flow by clearly directing traffic through your parking facility. Signage, painted asphalt markings and other parking barriers reduce confusion and make the space safer. Be sure also to consider the needs of pedestrians as they walk through the parking lot.

• Safety and security needs – In addition to signage, create a safe parking lot by ensuring adequate drainage, good lighting design, security cameras, and other safety features.

Parking should be an important consideration when searching for an office space in South Florida, as it will be an impactful line item on any budget. For help understanding the cost of parking and how to create a safe space for your employees, tenants and customers, give us a call at Seacoast Consulting Group.