Refining the Understanding of Parking Space Requirements and Its Impact on Vehicle Miles Traveled

Summary:

In 2023, the Minnesota legislature passed H.F. No. 2887 which implemented several policies to reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) in transportation. One of the key areas identified to reduce GHGs was through the reduction of vehicle miles traveled (VMT), which reduces GHG emissions by reducing the total distance travelled by cars in the state. Many VMT reduction strategies hold additional benefits such as increasing accessibility, safety, and reducing congestion. Parking space requirements have been highlighted as a specific element associated with driver modal choice, but little documented information is available on the established requirements or long-term benefits and challenges associated with modifying or removing these requirements. The goal of this project will be to explore, document, and broaden the collective understanding of mandated parking minimums within Minnesota and the region. Specifically, this project will examine the long-term benefits and challenges presented by reducing and/or removing currently established parking space requirements with new or redevelopment projects, and opportunities for parking space reallocation with existing uses.

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