Traffic Study of CHUM Parking Facilities

A Step-by-Step Characterization for a Precise Diagnosis

To better pinpoint the issues observed, Intervia’s team conducted a characterization of the site under study. Using inputs provided by the institution, the team carried out two field surveys to immerse themselves in the environment and gain a clearer understanding of internal circulation and existing operational challenges. The site characterization included a detailed description of the environment, the parking facilities, and the user groups who rely on them.

Following this characterization, our team produced a precise diagnosis that accounted for demand and traffic volumes, the various operating modes of the parking facilities, external circulation issues, and user orientation via the existing wayfinding/signage.

Traffic Complexity within a Hospital Context

A key feature of this study is that the parking facilities are embedded within an existing built environment, meaning that any modifications must avoid structural changes. They are also situated in a hospital context that introduces complex user-movement dynamics. It is essential to maintain smooth, rapid access for vulnerable patients, families and visitors unfamiliar with the site, and time-pressed staff whose availability and mobility are critical to their work, all while serving a larger share of users with reduced mobility. Noted issues included congestion, inadequate signage, and complex circulation flows.

Finally, the CHUM’s location in the heart of Montréal, an already congested area with high parking demand, further compounded circulation and accessibility challenges within the study area.

To address these issues, our team conducted a literature review to identify the most suitable layout solutions given current conditions, and then proposed enhancements to user management and routing within the parking facilities, with the goal of optimizing overall functionality.