Carsharing: Establishing its role in the parking demand management toolbox

This thesis explores the concept of using carsharing as a parking demand management strategy in developments through a review of the literature regarding parking policies and carsharing, as well as examining three North American cities, Boston, Massachusetts, Vancouver, British Columbia, and Austin, Texas, that have utilized carsharing as a parking demand strategy. Based on information gathered from the case studies and the literature review recommendations are made on how to incorporate carsharing into local parking policies. Recommendations on the preliminary process of policy development include: first, make updating parking policies a priority; second, increase the education outreach efforts regarding the use and benefits of carsharing; and third, develop a strong working relationship between the public and private stakeholders. Recommendations on implementing the use of carsharing as a parking demand policy include: establish a carsharing overlay zone, couple carsharing with supportive polices; and offer incentives to support alternative transportation. Governmental support of carsharing and its inclusion in the development process can be a powerful tool in helping cities improve the quality of life of residents and enhance the vitality of neighborhoods. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)...