Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside (2011)

Below is the uncorrected machine-read text of this chapter, intended to provide our own search engines and external engines with highly rich, chapter-representative searchable text of each book. Because it is UNCORRECTED material, please consider the following text as a useful but insufficient proxy for the authoritative book pages.

At one time, parking was just a necessary function airports had to provide their patrons, but was little more than an afterthought compared with terminals and runways. Today, parking is one of the largest sources of unencumbered revenue for an airport as well as one of its largest sources of complaints by travelers—and the employees. Fortunately, signing as it relates to parking is now reaping the benefits of both careful planning and technology. Airports (as well as other major trans- portation hubs) are using a user-perspective approach where adequate information is delivered at the necessary locations in the appropriate form. In fact, even some of today’s well-planned wayfinding designs can get lost in translation. For example, at Schiphol, Bureau Mijksenaar tested a new wayfinding system in the airport’s three parking lots (previously a confusing mix of colors that passengers had difficulty remembering or differentiating.). The design firm used symbols, rather than pictograms, with three themes—Holland, sports, and international cities—and every parking section was denoted by a correspond- ing mascot (such as the Statue of Liberty, etc.). Unfortunately, the test group didn’t under- stand many international city icons, so the firm swapped the city icons for more recogniza- ble transportation symbols, along with the sports and Holland themes, and the system is now very successful. 4.1 Considering Parking Users in Design (Human Factors) The approach to designing a signing system for parking functions is similar to signing in other areas: understand the user’s needs. Parking signing is unique, however, in that you have to pro- vide wayfinding for the driver (e.g., inside the vehicle) and pedestrian (outside the vehicle) within the same environment. Regardless of the person’s mode, wayfinding must give each type of user information as to the: • Destination (where one wants to go), • Designation (where one is currently), and • Direction (how to go from one to the other). In general, the human factor aspects of signing for parking at airports follow the same princi- ples as necessary for all signing at airports: simplicity, consistency, continuity, and redundancy. Focus groups of users can be valuable sources of input as airports embark on signing makeovers. Parking garage users include both drivers and, once they have exited their vehicles, pedestri- ans. Drivers require sign guidance in order to navigate to a suitable location within the parking 53 C H A P T E R 4 Parking

facility. Many airport facilities offer short-term parking that is located closer to the terminal at a higher cost, and long-term parking further away from the terminal at a lower cost. Larger air- ports may also divide their parking facilities into sectors such as domestic and international departures in order to provide a closer connection with the appropriate areas of the adjacent ter- minal building. Some airports have as many as eight different parking options. Posting rates in advance of decision points can help drivers make an informed decision about where to park. The challenge is to do so without overloading the motorist with information. In addition, drivers need to know which parking areas are full and which have parking spots available. Within the parking facility, signs and pavement markings directing drivers need to be clear about the direc- tion of traffic (e.g., one-way only or two-way) and the direction to follow to find more parking or to find the exit. As pedestrians, parking users need to remember the level, aisle, and sometimes which garage or lot where they have left their vehicle. There are a number of memory aids that can assist parking lot users to remember where they parked their car. Different levels can be associated with different colors, images, and alphanumeric characters, and in addition each parking spot can be numbered with the hope that at least one of these memory aids will be remembered. In addition, as the use of automated payment stations—often referred to as pay-on-foot stations—proliferates at airports, it becomes necessary to remind patrons to take their parking tickets with them versus leaving them in their vehicle. Since the pay stations are often located at a consolidated location where pedestrians easily pass before returning to their vehicles, encour- aging patrons to keep their parking tickets with them is as much a customer service activity as it is informational to make exiting a parking facility more efficient. After leaving their parking spot, pedestrians need to be directed along a safe path to access points to the appropriate terminal entrance. Signs showing the pedestrian exit and terminal access have to be clearly distinguishable, by size, color, placement and design from signs intended for drivers. Crosswalks need to be well-marked using signs and pavement markings for both pedestrians and drivers. Pedestrians require similar guidance upon returning to the parking facility from the terminal. Method of payment, whether pay on foot or pay upon exit from the facility, must also be made clear. It may be necessary to remind patrons to pay for their parking at a pay station within the terminal (or some other location) before proceeding to their vehicles and exiting the parking facility. From the terminal building, they need to be guided to the appropriate sector of the parking facility, and crossing points with roadways need to be well- marked. Assistance phones to help drivers having difficulty finding their car should be well marked. 4.2 Signs and Wayfinding 4.2.1 Planning for Parking Signing A comprehensive signing program for parking encompasses the moment a person enters the airport grounds and can continue past the exit plazas. To provide an overview of the elements to consider when planning parking signing, Figure 4.1 represents a checklist to aid in the discussion. Additional thoughts for consideration: • Use light as a wayfinding tool to highlight key destination points such as elevators and connec- tor bridge access points (Figure 4.2). • Select sign colors that can be distinguished under different types of lighting conditions. • Provide an adequate number of level and row markers throughout the garage. 54 Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside

• Use the elevators as a touch point to reinforce where the user parked noting the color, level, zone, etc. • Repeat parking level colors and themes inside the cab next to the call buttons. • If themed icons are used as a memory aid they must all be unique in order to be memorable. Avoid using like categories as in each level is themed after a flower. • The larger and more complex the garage is the more redundant the memory aids will need to be. • Garages that park cars on the ramps will require special attention in determining where the levels change to avoid unnecessary confusion. Parking 55 Area Items Airport Entry • Naming of parking facilities/options Impacts roadway signs (sizing, mounting structure, etc.) Consider regional expectations (e.g., should you use “Long Term” or “Daily”.) • Parking rates Aids decision-making Entry to Parking Facility • Garage or lot identification • Parking status Basic: Open or Full Detail: Number of spaces available and their location • Parking regulations • Towing policies and contact number • Parking rates Preferably post prior to entry with sufficient time/space to exit out of the parking entrance lane if driver elects not to park after seeing rates. • Speed limit within parking facility • Height restrictions/warnings • Notice to watch for pedestrians Vehicular Perspective • Directional signs to destinations Park Exit Location Materials Message Symbols • Parking Designations No parking Handicap parking Reserved parking Maximum 1-hour parking • Mounting considerations • Regulatory and traffic control Pedestrian Perspective • Level/section/aisle identification • Pay-on-foot messages • Trailblazer directional signs to destinations To terminal To baggage claim To stairs To elevators • Informational signs Assistance/emergency call boxes Automated External Defibrillators No smoking • Mounting/placement considerations Exit from Parking Facility • Exit lane identification Cash only Credit only Express exit • Parking rates • Directions after exiting Return to terminal Airport exit - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Figure 4.1. Parking signage checklist.

4.2.2 Communicating Parking Options To locate the parking facilities for the general public, use the word “PARKING.” To identify specific parking lots, use the following terms: • HOURLY—for short periods of time, less than 24 hours. • DAILY—for periods of 24 hours or more. • REMOTE/ECONOMY—for outlying daily lots, Park & Ride, etc. • VALET—for assisted parking. • METERED—for coin operated spaces. • GARAGE—which can then be separated into Hourly or Daily, as appropriate. • CELL PHONE LOT—for non-pay parking facilities where a driver is waiting for a phone call to pick up a passenger at the curbside. If parking lots or garages are related to multi-terminal complexes, other terminology may apply, such as: PARKING—TERMINAL 1 (or A), PARKING—TERMINAL 2 (or B), etc. The parking garage that serves multiple terminals may require a “CENTRAL GARAGE” designation. Alternate terminology for “Hourly” is “Short-Term,” and for “Daily” is “Long-Term.” The Identification and Evaluation of Guide Signing for Airport Roadways with Specific Application to Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport recommends these same terms, with slight exceptions29. 4.2.3 Connecting Parking and Terminals In most cases, the terminal is the primary destination for a person entering a parking facility. Depending on the distance of the parking facility from the terminal and the physical configura- tion of the parking facility and the terminal, a person will use one of the following methods to move to and from parking and airport terminals: • Shuttle buses, • Cross walks, • Sky bridges, • Elevators/escalators/stairs, and • People mover systems. Signing to identify and direct patrons to these terminal-access locations must be presented to pedestrians, e.g., after a person has parked their vehicle and needs to proceed to a terminal. Signs 56 Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside Photo credit: Chris Cunningham Figure 4.2. Effective use of lighting to call attention to key destinations like the elevators at TPA.

must be consistent with color and other graphical elements used throughout the parking facility. In most cases, the only identification that should be provided is the phrase “To Terminal” (or “To Terminal 1,” “To Terminal A,” etc.) with the appropriate directional arrow. 4.3 Sign Categories The sign type family is the catalog of all directional, identification, and informational signing applications. It functions as a tool for programming signs and allows for a much more effective process. This section includes primary and secondary sign types for: • Directional Signs—Signing designed to facilitate circulation to and/or from a specific park- ing facility. • Identification Signs—Signing designed for identification of specific parking products or areas within parking facilities and pathways to terminals. • Informational Signs—Signs or displays designed to convey airport information and services. Directories of floor plans, levels, terminals, airlines, gates information, etc. • Regulatory Signs—Signs for traffic control, fire exits, stairs, parking reserved for people with disabilities, etc. 4.3.1 Directional This addresses the information process that enables passengers and visitors to select the proper path to meet their needs, when to determine a decision point, and where to identify specific ser- vices and various functional areas such as the location of parking pay stations. Directional signing is of greatest importance in airport parking facilities. All other signs are sub- ordinate. Proper directional signing is necessary because the rapid movement of vehicles, people, and particularly the passenger is essential for maximum utilization of the parking area. Success or failure of the operations and its signing is largely measured by the ease, speed, and comfort of going from parking to the terminal or the other way around. In addition to traditional signing considerations for the conventional passenger, directional signing is paramount to those persons arriving late for a flight, persons with disabilities, and non-English speaking passengers. Primary messages for vehicular directional signs are PARK and EXIT. Vehicular directional signs are typically placed above the lowest structural beam, which can create poor sight lines. On overhead directional signs, the message should be placed as close to the bottom of the sign panel as possible to improve the visibility by improving the sight lines, as shown in Figure 4.3. 4.3.1.1 Vehicular Viewer circulation patterns and natural lines of vision are the basis for determining the loca- tion of all signs. Signs shall be located to precede decision points to ensure sufficient time for vehicles to react to each sign message. Note the orientation of the arrows in regards to vehicular directional signing. When it is desired to have vehicles proceed in a straight direction, the arrow should be pointing down, sim- ilar to the orientation of arrows on roadway signs. In additional, the arrow on the sign should be Parking 57 Figure 4.3. On overhead directional signs, the message should be placed as close to the bottom of the sign panel as possible to improve the visibility by improving the sight lines.

placed over the center of the drive aisle. Although it may seem counterintuitive on ramps that go physically up, the arrows over the travel lane should still point down to indicate the message to continue driving forward. Vehicular directional signs should be centered over the drive aisle and are larger and more visible than a pedestrian directional sign. Examples of parking arrows that illustrate the best practices for parking sign location are shown in Figure 4.4. 4.3.1.2 Pedestrian Viewer circulation patterns and natural lines of vision are the basis for determining the loca- tion of all signs. Signs shall be located to precede decision points to ensure sufficient time for passengers to react to each sign message. Contrary to the arrow orientation for vehicles, the arrow should point up on directional sign- ing for pedestrians when the need is to send people straight ahead. Yet similar to vehicular direc- tional arrows, it is helpful when the arrow is placed over the desired pedestrian pathway. Pedestrian directional signs should be placed adjacent to the drive aisles and are smaller than a vehicular directional sign to avoid competing for a driver’s attention. 4.3.2 Identification Proper identification of the various parking products and destinations is essential to the cus- tomer experience. As the choices continue to expand, the task of remembering where you parked 58 Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside Figure 4.4. Examples of parking arrow applications. Source: Boston Logan International Airport “Signage Standards and Guidelines Volume 3—Parking,” August 2005.

becomes increasingly challenging. Identification signs also mark the location of items such as stairs, elevators, sky bridges to specific terminals, etc. 4.3.2.1 Toll Plaza Depending on the type of parking management system used by an airport and other operational preferences, signing near and at a toll plaza should be mounted overhead and highly visible. At an entry plaza, signing should clearly identify the parking facility being entered (e.g., daily, hourly, etc.). In addition, the fee schedule should be posted in a manner so that patrons can clearly see the effective charges for use of the facility. If it is not possible to post the rates in a leg- ible manner directly on the ticket issue machine (or card reader), then the fee schedule should be mounted adjacent to the equipment. It is not advisable to post other regulatory information near the entry equipment; this could reduce the efficiency of the entry plaza due to patrons attempting to read all the information and causing queues. Such regulatory signs could include information about the acceptance of liability for using the facility or similar information. At exit plazas, signing can be used to improve operations. By placing large signing above each lane of the exit plaza that clearly identifies what functions can be performed in that lane, this allows patrons to self-select where they need to go to complete their transaction. Not only should the sign indicate if a lane is “open” or “closed,” it should also identify if the lane is “cash only,” “cash & credit,” or some form of a pre-paid “express lane.” Using some form of changeable message dis- plays above each lane maximizes the operational flexibility of the exit plaza. 4.3.2.2 Payment Options It is becoming an increasingly common feature at airports that payment for parking is made prior to a patron returning to their vehicle within a parking facility. Such payment stations are most often placed so that patrons must pass one payment station, or a bank of payment stations, just prior to entering the parking facility. Be it at the end of a sky bridge, prior to exiting the ter- minal, at a shuttle bus shelter, or in an elevator lobby, signing should clearly identify the loca- tion of the pay stations. Since payment for parking is an operational function and not a regulatory one, more flexibil- ity is provided to airports in what the pay stations are called and what signing is provided. Some airports brand this type of payment and exiting option with terms such as “Express Pay” or “Pay- and-Go” and the associated signing is more in-line with advertisement with specific graphics and colors. Airports should still use the conventional and internationally accepted logos in conjunc- tion with these other forms of signing. With pay-on-foot operations, parking rates can be placed on a placard directly on the pay sta- tion, or displayed via a monitor incorporated into the pay station. Airports need to take into con- sideration ADA requirements with pay stations and provide equipment at the appropriate height and legibility. Even if pay stations are provided prior to exiting, it is desirable to post the parking rate sched- ule at the exit lanes. This reminds individuals what they should pay for the durations of their parking and to prepare their ticket for payment. This makes for a speedier exit, which increases the efficiency of the exit plaza. 4.3.3 Informational Informational signing has less importance than directional signing in parking facilities. These signs provide specific details such as: “You Are Here” maps, parking operation offices, special assistance, and similar types. The intent of these signs is to help individuals satisfy needs not Parking 59

directly related to finding a parking space, exiting the parking facility, or moving to the appro- priate terminal. Informational signs also address requirements issued by local, state, or federal agencies that must be posted and visible to the public. Examples of informational signing that should be posted include the following: • No smoking signs, • Towing enforcement policies and who to contact to retrieve vehicles, • Required city/local regulations and laws, and • ADA required signs. 4.3.3.1 Directories The primary objective of directories in airports is to provide the passenger with an overall ori- entation of the terminal, parking, and other facilities. Another objective of a directory is to help the movement of passengers to and from their destinations with ease and efficiency. In most cases, it is a supplement to the existing sign system. It is important that the individual needs of each specific airport be considered in the planning of directory information units. The development of directories can be a very expensive piece of the information system for airports. The effort required to determine accurate or representative graphic floor plans, space identification, symbols, color, text, supplemental information, enclosures, illumination, orien- tation architectural design compatibility, location, and overall implementation can be extensive as related to the overall cost of the individual units. Color coding systems, used on some map directories to key terminal and parking buildings or levels, have proven very effective for complicated terminals and parking structures, but if not care- fully done, color coding can make a basically simple terminal more confusing and complex. In most cases, simple, accurate line drawings of high quality may be the best solution for representing the floor plans. In addition, it has been proven more effective if the orientation of the map matches the actual orientation of the physical environment from the perspective of the user. In other words, always having the map oriented so that the top of the map is north may be highly confusing to the patron if this causes the map to be upside down compared to their actual surroundings. Care should be taken in reviewing directory construction details to ensure a flexible and cost- efficient method for changing diagrammatic maps and alphabetical indexes. Maintaining an aes- thetically acceptable appearance over the course of time is an equally important consideration in the directory unit design. 4.3.3.2 Flight Information Displays Flight Information Displays (FIDs) provide complete flight related information regarding arrivals and departures and are common features within the terminal at various locations. It is becoming more common to find FIDs within parking facilities. When a parking garage serves multiple terminals, locating an FID system within the garage itself at locations prior to actually accessing a terminal allows users to verify to which terminal and gate area they should proceed. On the garage-side of a sky bridge would be an example of a location where providing FIDs would be helpful to patrons. In addition, FIDs may be placed in remote parking facilities where shuttles, trams, or some other method transports users to terminals. FIDs would be especially helpful when the patron, for example, needs to select a specific shuttle or tram stop to go to a certain terminal. 4.3.3.3 Row/Level Markers and Other Visual Themes For parking garages, each level should be numbered from the ground level and up with explanatory terminology added for clarification, such as, for example, “Terminal Level.” 60 Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside

Aisle location signs need to be repeated sufficiently. For garages with lower ceilings, repeating the locator signing every two to four stalls may be required. In parking garages with higher ceiling clear- ances, placing locator information on the support columns is typically sufficient. In surface parking lots, mounting locator information on light poles is the most typical placement and also allows the signing to be placed higher which permits patrons to see them over the tops of almost all vehicles. Signs should also be located at the end of aisles and/or at the connection of an aisle to a walkway. Visual themes are elements that trigger a person to identify where they parked. The most basic memory devices used are numbers, letters, and colors. These memory devices can become more creative and site-specific by incorporating graphics. Some airports are even incorporating music and sound cues to further the cognitive links to a specific parking area. Regardless of the visual memory devices selected, they should also be repeated on directional maps, at elevator lobbies, and even on the buttons of the elevator to further reinforce the message. These identification systems are at the discretion of the airport and have a lot of flexibility. Prac- tically no regulations are in place that restrict how simple or elaborate the system can be. It is accepted, however, that simple colors, symbols, and graphics are more effective. It is highly rec- ommended that any identification scheme selected be tested within focus groups prior to the manufacturing and installation of signs. Consider schemes that provide images that are readily distinct and memorable. Avoid using images associated with a single category, where all the images are a type of flower, for instance. Figures 4.5 through 4.12 represent how memory aids can be deployed to help people remember where they parked. 4.3.4 Regulatory Regulatory signs relate to local, state, and federal requirements such as traffic signs, ADA items, and safety devices such as fire exits and automatic external defibrillators (AED). 4.3.4.1 Emergency/Assistance Call Box Location When an airport provides call boxes within the parking facilities, these should be clearly iden- tifiable to both drivers and pedestrians. The placement of the call boxes is critical, and signing Parking 61 Source: Naughton & Associates. Figure 4.5. Row and level markers with pedestrian trailblazer information that is sized appropriately to not be confusing to motorists.

62 Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside Source: Naughton & Associates. Figure 4.6. Reminder on the glass doors to the elevator lobby. Source: Naughton & Associates. Figure 4.7. Reinforcement of graphic theme memory tool at elevators.

Parking 63 Source: Naughton & Associates. Figure 4.8. Reminder cards and garage level information next to the call button plate. Source: Naughton & Associates. Figure 4.9. Reinforcement of graphic theme memory tool inlaid into the elevator lobby floor.

Source: Naughton & Associates. Figure 4.10. The wayfinding experience is continued inside the elevator cab. This type of sign is important for persons looking for their vehicle. Photo credit: Chris Cunningham Figure 4.11. Examples of artwork used as a memory tool device at TPA. Figure 4.12. Example of inlaid floor graphic used to remind people where they parked at RIC.

cannot overcome poor planning. The placement of a blue-light beacon on or adjacent to the call boxes is often used to supplement signing. Not only should signing be used to locate and identify call boxes, instructions should be placed so that a user can see how to use the call box, for example, if a code or telephone extension should be dialed to specific services such as police, fire, EMS, and vehicle assistance. Both the call box and instructions should comply with ADA regulations. 4.3.4.2 AED Location Depending on local and state requirements, it may be necessary to place AEDs in a parking facility. It is best to place AEDs in areas where people would instinctually look for them. Exam- ples of such locations include elevator lobbies, adjacent to emergency/assistance call boxes, and near FIDs or “You are here” locator maps. Signing for AED locations, again, may be regulated by local or state law. At the minimum, signing should be placed so that an individual can see either the location or directional signs to AEDs over the tops of vehicles. By placing AEDs near emergency/assistance call boxes, a flash- ing beacon can be used to further draw attention to these medical devices. 4.3.5 Unique Situations and Systems 4.3.5.1 Cell Phone Lots With the proliferation of mobile phones over the past decade, the concept of just-in-time deliv- ery has progressed to just-in-time passenger pick-up at airports. Now that people are able to receive real-time information on a flight’s arrival status, the need to guess when a flight might land and find a parking place to wait until it does arrive is dissipating. Airports have developed special areas for people to wait short periods of time in their vehicles until their family, friends, or business asso- ciates contact them via cell phone to pick them up at the terminal curbside. In the 2009 Survey, more than 74% of the airports indicated they provide some form of cell phone parking lots. As previously mentioned, the terminology for these types of parking facilities varies and they are often branded by airports to encourage their use. Figure 4.13 illustrates some of the various signs used to identify this special type of parking area. Of 50 airports reviewed, over half of them had a cell phone lot. Of these airports, the name most often used is “cell phone lot.” Parking 65 Figure 4.13. Examples of airport cell phone lot signage.

Because of their popularity and ability to de-congest terminal curbsides, some airports are providing dedicated information and amenities within the cell phone waiting areas. Flight infor- mation display boards, free wireless Internet, vending machines, and restrooms are the more common items. Figure 4.14 is an example of how FIDs at Cell Phone Lots provide current infor- mation to patrons. This encourages people to stay in the Cell Phone Lot and not circle the airport or congest terminal curbsides. 4.3.5.2 Advanced Parking Management Systems One area where more information is being provided is the introduction of changeable sign- ing and guidance systems within parking facilities to assist drivers in finding available parking spaces. The basic concept is that a series of sensors count vehicles as they enter and exit specified areas of a parking facility. These in/out counts are compared against the known number of park- ing spaces within each area whereby the number of vehicles parked in each zone can be calcu- lated. As areas become full, this information is conveyed to drivers via changeable signs and in-pavement markers so that they can bypass the full areas and proceed to areas with available parking. The areas can be defined at the macro level (the entire parking facility), or at the micro level (individual parking spaces). In the 2009 Airport Sign Managers Survey, 55% of airports responding indicate they use some form of electronic car counting. Some airports display this information to the public, while other airports use the car count information internally to make operational decisions such as to place cones or barricades to block off areas of a parking facility. There should be no more than four options lines on one roadway sign. If there are more than four parking options, the information should be separated. For example, the first sign could be daily and hourly parking, and the second economy and remote parking, in that sequence. Figures 4.15 through 4.19 show examples of various types of information being provided and where it is provided. London Heathrow International Airport deployed a system to take customer assistance to another level. Instead of merely helping people finding a parking space, Heathrow has a system in their Terminal 5 Parking Structure to assist with locating your vehicle after one’s trip. Figure 4.20 is the graphic the British Airport Authority uses to explain how the technology works. 66 Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside Figure 4.14. An example of MUFIDs at Cell Phone Lots (Tampa International Airport).

Parking 67 Figure 4.15. Roadway sign providing information as to the availability of parking in each parking facility. The information is provided prior to the decision point where driver must travel (Reagan National Airport). Figure 4.16. A parking availability sign that is placed immediately after the access controlled entrance plaza indicating to drivers the number of parking spaces available on each floor of the parking structure (SEA-TAC Airport). Note: Although the signage is useful and located in the correct location, if the information displayed is not current and accurate, drivers will soon discredit the information and the signage becomes useless.

68 Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside Figure 4.17. Once inside the garage additional signs indicate the availability of parking within a particular area. In this case, areas are defined by groups of parking aisles. (SEA) Figure 4.18. The informational signage associated with a “space management system” that directs drivers to specific available parking spaces.

These Advanced Parking Management Systems (APMS) are gaining popularity at airports and collective guidance has been provided by the Federal Highway Administration regarding APMS65. This document is informative in the topics of describing the state-of-the-practice, recommenda- tions for planning APMS, and other implementation items. The guidebook generally discusses sign- ing but does not provide specific details regarding sign content, form or placement. In fact, specifics and recommendations on signing associated with APMS are often suggested by vendors providing the APMS. 4.4 Sign Design Elements The 2009 MUTCD contains information regarding signs and pavement markings in the pub- lic drive aisles of parking facilities. Although the 2009 MUTCD does not specifically address Parking 69 Figure 4.19. Once inside the parking garage, the space management system uses a series of signs to indicate which areas have available parking. Then sensors located above each parking space use red and green indicator lights to inform drivers if a particular space is occupied or not. Figure 4.20. An explanation as to how technology is used to aid patrons in finding available parking and locating their vehicles at a later time.

parking spaces, entry plazas, and exit plazas to the extent possible parking facilities as a whole should follow the MUTCD. (Note: there is a MUTCD task force that is specifically examining parking facilities and how and when the MUTCD should be applied in these areas). Some airports have developed their own sign standards for their respective facilities for con- sistency, continuity, and identity. Boston Logan, DFW, Miami, Frankfurt, and Hong Kong inter- national airports are a few examples where airport-specific signing design standards and guides are implemented30. These guidelines take into account specific location, architecture, codes, lan- guages, demographics, etc., that apply to their airport but may not necessarily translate to other airports because of these exact considerations. As mentioned previously, regulatory signs are typically designed to most closely resemble the guidance within the MUTCD than are other sign types within parking facilities. This may be attributed to local code requirements, but mostly because reasonable and prudent people easily recognize and quickly interpret their meaning. It is the placement and mounting of regulatory signs that are modified to meet the physical restrictions of a parking area such as ceiling heights/ clearance within a parking garage. 4.4.1 Terminology One of the more confusing aspects for drivers to airports is understanding the different park- ing options provided and the availability of parking within each option; especially when a single airport may provide seven or eight different parking choices. Terminology describing these options is not universal and adds to the confusion. See Section 4.2.2 for a list of recommended parking terminology. The following is a list of some of the wording used to describe parking areas at airports: • Daily Parking vs. Long Term Parking • Hourly Parking vs. Short Term Parking • Economy Parking vs. Express Parking • Cell Phone Lot vs. Park and Wait Area • Terminal Parking vs. Remote Parking • Garage Parking vs. Surface Parking • Valet Parking vs. VIP Parking vs. Concierge Parking 4.4.2 Symbology Symbols should be used to reinforce and provide visual confirmation of sign messages. Sec- tion 6.5.2 contains symbol families currently in use at major airports. A blue background with a white capital “P” is universally understood as a sign indicating a parking area even if the appearance of that sign varies slightly (see Figure 4.21). Whether from a driver’s viewpoint or as a pedestrian, identifying and following these signs directs an individual to a parking facility. Symbol shape, placement, and color on all pedestrian and vehicular regulatory signs shall con- form to the latest edition of the MUTCD and local requirements. 4.4.3 Typography While the argument continues to rage about whether sans serifs are easier to read than serif fonts, the sans serif typefaces, because their letter shapes are simpler, have been proven to be slightly more legible than their serifed cousins. Reference Section 6.5.3 for additional informa- tion on typography. 70 Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside

For wayfinding messages, text using upper and lowercase letters with initial caps is easier to read than all uppercase lettering. 4.4.4 Arrows The placement of arrows on sign faces should conform to a uniform standard. The following guidelines are suggested for the placement of arrows: General Arrow Placement: • Arrows should never point into text • Left-facing arrows should be located toward the left side of signs • Right-facing arrows should be located toward the right side of signs • Forward-facing and/or downward-facing arrows are typically located close to the flow of traf- fic. Refer to previous discussion on which direction arrows should face for vehicle traffic ver- sus pedestrian traffic. General Text Alignment with Arrows: • Left-facing arrows require left justified text • Right-facing arrows require right justified text • Forward-facing and/or downward-facing arrows require text to be justified closest to the flow of traffic (e.g., if forward traffic is hugging the right side of a corridor, the arrow should be on the right side of the face with the text justified right, and vice versa). Reference Section 6.5.4 for additional information on arrows. 4.4.5 Color In order to maintain a visually unified system of signs airport-wide, the application of color must be consistent on every element of all signing. The guidance for colors within the MUTCD Parking 71 Figure 4.21. Forms of the customary parking sign.

should be used as a starting point; final selection should be based on what colors create the best contrast for text and background colors. Select colors that will read well in all lighting conditions. 4.5 Sign Locations, Structures, Materials, and Safety 4.5.1 Sign Locations With the exception of roadway and terminal signing, more guidance is available for signing in parking garages than for other areas at airports. Guidance in such documents includes placement of signs, types of signs, signs for pedestrians versus vehicles, and informational needs for various location with the parking facility31,32. Because every parking facility has a unique location, archi- tecture, configuration, and geometry, it is difficult to prepare generic parking signing plans and recommendations. 4.5.2 Illumination Options Because the ambient light levels along roadways in most major airports can vary (from termi- nal buildings, roadways, and landscaping) it may be necessary to use external or internal illumi- nation to provide adequate nighttime visibility for parking signs so that they compete equally. At smaller airports or on the outlying areas of larger airports, with lower ambient light levels, high quality retroreflective materials may provide adequate visibilities. Nighttime testing on-site will be required to make these determinations. 4.5.2.1 Retroreflection Retroreflective sign sheeting materials return light from vehicle headlamps to the driver’s eyes. Retroreflection is achieved either through microscopic glass beads with a thin metallic backing or through microprisms in a thin polycarbonate film. These materials vary in the daytime color appearance and in their nighttime brightness and efficiency with which they reflect the vehicle headlamps. In some airports, the geometry of a parking facility is such that considerable care must be taken by the designer in sign location and orientation to ensure that vehicle headlamps will adequately illuminate the sign along the necessary driving sections. In order to get the maximum benefit from retroreflective sheeting in a garage, the sign panels should be angled towards the driver (typically 5 to 8 degrees). The use of high quality retroreflective sheeting in place of external illumination may also help airports reduce electricity and maintenance costs and reach sustainability goals. 4.5.2.2 External Illumination (Ambient Light) External illumination of parking signs within a parking garage can often be achieved through the ambient garage lighting. If ambient light is used, ensure the signs are located near existing light sources as much as possible. If additional lighting is needed for signing, it is rec- ommended that internally illuminated signs be chosen over externally illuminated signs in the garage environments. This is to reduce the amount of electrical infrastructure required to sup- port external illumination and to eliminate head clearance issues when ceiling heights are already reduced. 4.5.2.3 Internal Illumination Internally illuminated signs can be designed to provide sign recognition and legibility dis- tances comparable to those of externally illuminated. Proper materials and design must be used for the specific viewing angles present for a specific sign location. Candidate sign materials should 72 Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside

be viewed in daylight and dusk conditions to ensure that there is adequate contrast when the sign is not lit. 4.5.3 Sign Structures The following are the types of general sign mounting frequently found in parking facilities: • Overhead Suspended—signs that are suspended from the ceiling using a cable or break-away fastening system. Check wind load requirements. • Soffit Mount—signs that are located on an architectural soffit or wall, and mounted with the back of the sign to the soffit or wall using a mechanical fastening system. • Ceiling Mount—signs that are located flush to the ceiling and mounted with the top of the sign to the ceiling using a mechanical fastening system. • Flag Mount—signs that are mounted perpendicular to the attachment surface, usually on a wall and/or soffit, and attached using a mechanical fastening system. • Post Mount—signs that are mounted directionally to a ground-mounted single or double post structure using a mechanical fastening system. • Wall Mount—signs that are mounted with the back of the sign to the wall using a mechani- cal fastening system. • Freestanding—signs that have their bases mounted directly to the ground/finished floor using a mechanical fastening system. • Light Pole Mount—signs that are mounted directly on the existing light pole structure. • Overhead Roadway—signs that are mounted directly above the lane of traffic to a ground- mounted structure using a mechanical fastening system. Appendix B contains detailed graphics illustrations with recommended clearances for various sign types and locations. 4.5.4 Pedestrian Safety Considerations Specific research to analyze pedestrian and vehicle interactions within parking areas at airports has not been compiled, but research has been conducted to analyze and make safety recommen- dations for pedestrians at locations with high volumes of vehicles and/or pedestrians at other locations33. Once an engineering study is completed, recommended treatments for safety improve- ments can be determined. These treatments fall into one of the four categories described in Figure 4.22. Parking 73 Treatment Category Description Crosswalk This category encompasses standard crosswalk markings and pedestrian crossing signs, as opposed to unmarked crossings. Enhanced This category includes those devices that enhance the visibility of the crossing location and pedestrians waiting to cross. Warning signs, markings, or beacons in this category are present or active at the crossing location at all times. Active Also called “active when present,” this category includes those devices designed to display a warning only when pedestrians are present or crossing the street. Red This category includes those devices that display a circular red indication (signal or beacon) to motorists at the pedestrian location. Figure 4.22. Table of possible treatments to enhance pedestrian safety.

4.6 Sign Maintenance One of the myths of wayfinding is that once a new wayfinding system is implemented the work is done. This is a false assumption. Airports are dynamic environments that are constantly chang- ing. In order to perpetuate the integrity of the wayfinding program a systematic maintenance program must be implemented as an integral part of standard airport operations. A strategic maintenance program is the key to perpetuating a well-planned wayfinding pro- gram. Standard procedures should be in place to address the impact of changes to airport operations, including clear update policies and scheduled maintenance reviews (quarterly, semi-annually and annually). Clearly defined procedures will help address issues such as the following: • Addition of a new parking facility, • Re-designation or re-configuring a parking facility, • Adding signs, • Deleting signs, • Temporary signs, and • Directories, both electronic and static. Developing a quality Sign Standards Manual will be one of the best tools in managing consis- tent planning, design, installation, application, and maintenance of the sign system. As a minimum, the following represents a suggested sign maintenance procedure: • Monthly visual inspections: check for burned out bulbs/lights, scratched sign cabinets, sign face damage, graffiti, structural damage, and non-standard signing due to signing updates. • Quarterly sign cleaning: cleaning of exterior surfaces and support structures. Twice a year the interior of sign boxes/cabinets should be examined for build-up of dirt, dust, and other debris. • Replacement parts: items such as extra bulbs, hardware, and mechanical fasteners should be on hand to provide quick fixes until complete repairs can be made if needed. • Replacement and recycling/disposal procedures: determine how damaged or obsolete signs will be removed and where the unusable items will be discarded. • Sign maintenance manual: a maintenance manual should be prepared for in-house informa- tion but can also be distributed to sign vendors to be aware of the airport’s expectations for new signs. 4.7 Accessibility Airports are among the most difficult wayfinding environments for people with disabilities due to the multiple layers of complexity. Airport sign managers and design firms advise that air- ports utilize the following approaches to ensure that the environment can remain at a high stan- dard of accessibility: • Develop an accessibility plan and audit: During the wayfinding design and development process, it is important to have a separate audit that just focuses on accessibility issues. • Have clear ongoing accessibility guidelines: After a project is complete these guidelines will serve as both instruction and training for airport employees and guidance for system mainte- nance and replacement. • Develop an in-house expertise: Large airports should have one person responsible for man- aging accessibility issues while small and medium size airports should have specific depart- mental responsibilities for accessibility. 74 Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside

• Develop a resources list: This list of designers, code officials, organizations, and internal stake- holders can provide guidance on key issues and conflicts. 4.7.1 Audit of Elements On an airport wayfinding project, it is important to develop an audit of elements that must be fol- lowed to make the facility accessible. The audit consists of two parts: Strategy and Documentation. 4.7.1.1 Strategy All accessibility strategies should consist of the following parts: Managing Compliance—Utilize International, National, and State codes by doing the following: • Utilize the International Building Code for projects outside the United States. This will cor- respond with the current ADA. • List the top ADA national standards being followed at the state level regarding font, place- ment, and color. • List ADA issues specific to the state that may diverge from national standards. • List the provisions in the Air Carriers Access Act. Managing Legibility—Develop a legibility plan consisting of the following elements: • Font height based on distance in the facility. • Color contrast and lighting contrast requirements. • An approach to sign clutter. • Symbol height based on distance and number of symbols being used. Managing the Experience—Develop a narrative of the wayfinding experience by doing the following: • Write an accessibility narrative starting at the curb, and progressing to the gate describing the specific issues and recommendations for each area in the wayfinding process. • Develop a series of recommendations based on the needs of the sensory impaired and mobility impaired. Specifying Methodologies and Technologies—Specify materials by doing the following: • Name the specific modular system (if one is used) and accessibility issues associated with that system. • Specify materials, the material approach, vendors/manufacturers (if necessary), and paint or additional materials being applied. • Directories and maps. • Human assistance. • Talking signs. • Tactile floor surfaces. 4.7.1.2 Documentation All accessibility documents for tactile signs for the visually impaired should consist of the fol- lowing parts: Sign Placement: • Distance of the sign from doors and entrances and • Height of perpendicular wall signs and overhead signs from the floor. Sign Dimensions: • Separation of fonts from Braille, • Separation of font and Braille from the edge of the sign, and • Distance of the top and bottom of the font from floor. Parking 75

Fonts: • Style, • Height, and • Kerning. Sign substrate and base material: • Specify Braille and distance of the Braille from the floor, • Ensure all screws are flush if close to raised type, • Show edging or rounding of materials, and • Show material and substrate thickness. Paint specification: • Specify foreground and background color of materials and • Specify matte finishing. 76 Wayfinding and Signing Guidelines for Airport Terminals and Landside