Parking Services at The University of Alabama has earned Accredited Parking Organization with Distinction status from the International Parking & Mobility Institute, placing UA among a select group of universities recognized for excellence in parking, transportation and mobility operations.
Fewer than 30 universities nationwide hold Accredited Parking Organization status, and UA is one of only three SEC universities currently recognized at the higher “with Distinction” level.
The designation recognizes organizations that meet industry best practices in responsible parking management and operations, customer service, professional development, sustainability, access management, safety, data security, risk management and more.
“This accreditation reflects the dedication, professionalism and daily work of our Parking Services team,” said Chris D’Esposito, assistant vice president for Enterprise Services. “This was an 18-month effort that required significant documentation, third-party review and validation. Earning accreditation with distinction is a major accomplishment, and we are proud to see the team’s work recognized at this level.”
The Accredited Parking Organization program recognizes industry standards that support a high level of professionalism and competency in parking, transportation and mobility management. To earn accreditation, organizations must demonstrate a commitment to ongoing evaluation and improvement by implementing industry best practices.
Applicant organizations work with third-party reviewers to organize and present evidence of accomplishment for more than 100 criteria in 14 categories, in addition to 25 required criteria. To earn Accredited Parking Organization with Distinction status, organizations must meet more than 60 additional exceptional and progressive best practices across those same categories. Both levels require at least one facility to be evaluated and meet criteria established by the Accreditation Board.
“This achievement is the top benchmark of success in our industry, and it follows a comprehensive documentation and review process,” said Shawn Conrad, CAE, CEO of the International Parking & Mobility Institute. “Only best-of-class organizations can meet the demanding level of excellence required to gain accreditation.”
For UA Parking Services, the recognition reflects a sustained effort to document, evaluate and strengthen its operations in support of the campus community.
“Parking Services plays an important role in the daily campus experience for students, faculty, staff and visitors,” said Amy Haines, associate director for Transportation Services. “This recognition affirms the care our team puts into providing safe, reliable and professional service while continuing to look for ways to improve.”
According to IPMI, parking at an accredited facility or operation assures the public that the organization adheres to a strict code of ethics and meets national and internationally endorsed standards for professionalism, accountability, responsibility and performance.
The accreditation with distinction places UA Parking Services among the top-tier organizations in the parking and mobility sector and recognizes the department’s continued commitment to service, accountability and operational excellence.