University Invests in Thousands of 'Smart Parking' Sensors

CLEMSON, S.C. (WSPA) — Dealing with parking issues can often be frustrating, particularly in university settings. However, Clemson University thinks they have found an answer to this problem.

The institution is set to launch an updated mobile application designed to simplify parking location for students, employees, and guests shortly.

"We are extremely enthusiastic about providing information on where parking spots are accessible and where they aren’t," stated Dan Hofmann, who directs the parking and transportation services at Clemson University.

Commutter Ella Berkle mentioned that she understands the struggle of rushing to locate a parking space.

Occasionally, finding a parking space takes just about five minutes after entering the lot," Berkle noted. "But at other times, you might end up driving around for 10 or even 15 minutes." He added, "This can be quite irritating since you're rushing to catch a bus, make it to class, reach your workplace, or do anything else important.

The TigersCommute app provides drivers with up-to-date information on bus routes, electric vehicle charging stations, bike-sharing points, and available parking spots.

“It’ll give you a display of how many spaces are available and exactly where spaces are too,” Hoffman said. “There’s also a navigation button to take you right to the space from your car.”

According to officials, 3,000 sensors have been installed in the center of parking spaces.

“Our priority is going to be the employee spaces, the commuter student commuter spaces, metered spaces and handicapped accessible spaces,” said Hofmann.

Students said they are glad the hunt for parking will be over soon.

“I’m really excited about it,” Berkle said. “I think parking sensors having the capability of being able to tell you exactly where parking is on campus is going to be something that Clemson has never seen before. I think it’ll hopefully change the stigma.”

Parking and transportation services said 7,000 more sensors will be installed in summer 2025, just in time for the fall semester.

Clemson’s parking sensor project is the largest college campus smart parking initiative in North America.

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