Parking Traffic Study at CHUM

A Step-by-Step Characterization for a Precise Diagnosis

To better understand the challenges encountered, the Intervia team conducted a thorough characterization of the site under study. This process involved leveraging data provided by the institution and conducting two on-site surveys to immerse themselves in the environment and gain a deeper understanding of the internal traffic flow and existing operational issues. The site characterization included a detailed description of the environment, the parking facilities, and the clientele using them.

Following this characterization, our team was able to establish a precise diagnosis that accounted for traffic levels, the various operational modes of the parking facilities, external traffic flow challenges, and user orientation through existing signage.

The Complexity of Traffic Flow in a Hospital Setting

The uniqueness of this study lies, first and foremost, in the fact that the parking facilities are located within an existing built environment, meaning that any modifications must avoid structural changes. Additionally, the hospital setting introduces a complex dynamic to user movement. Ensuring smooth and rapid accessibility is crucial for a vulnerable clientele, families and visitors unfamiliar with the premises, and hurried staff whose mobility and quick access are essential to their work. This complexity is further heightened by a higher proportion of users with reduced mobility. Congestion issues, inadequate signage, and the complexity of traffic flows were among the key challenges identified.

Furthermore, CHUM’s location in the heart of Montreal, in a densely congested area with high parking demand, added to the traffic and accessibility challenges of the study area.

To address these challenges, our team conducted a literature review to identify the most suitable layout solutions while considering the current situation. We then proposed enhancements for user management and navigation within the parking facilities, with the aim of optimizing their overall functionality.