In a move to streamline the commuter experience and modernize its infrastructure, LA Metro partnered with ParkHelp to launch a cutting-edge parking guidance system — starting with its Arcadia parking lot. 

Installed in February, the site marks the first deployment of the company’s G5 in-ground sensor technology in the U.S.

The Arcadia installation is just the beginning. It kicks off an ambitious initiative to bring ParkHelp’s real-time parking guidance technology to several of LA Metro’s facilities. 

The project aims to make parking more efficient, reduce congestion, and support Metro’s broader mission of smart, sustainable mobility.

ParkHelp’s Technology

At the heart of ParkHelp’s system is G5, a cloud-connected sensor embedded directly into the ground. The sensor monitors individual space occupancy and feeds live data to digital signage, guiding drivers to open spots — cutting the often frustrating search for parking by up to 20 minutes. 

Ideally, it could also help drivers make an informed decision to choose transit over driving. 

Beyond benefiting commuters, the data also enables parking operators to manage capacity more effectively and make smarter, data-informed operational decisions.

As LA Metro continues to roll out this technology across its network, the partnership with ParkHelp stands as an example of how transit agencies can harness innovation to improve access, reduce friction, and enhance the daily journey for riders across the region.

Colin Knell, president of the USA at ParkHelp, spoke to METRO Executive Editor Alex Roman about the LA Metro project, the company’s technology, and much more.

The LA Metro Partnership

METRO: Let’s talk about your work with LA Metro, how did that relationship begin?

Knell:LA Metro needed a way to provide real-time parking availability to commuters — ideally before they even leave home. Initially, they started deploying our G5 ground sensors at around 15 to 16 surface lots. These are highly visible, high-traffic lots, where it’s crucial to quickly and clearly show availability.

We’ve also installed parking guidance in some of their garages, including rooftop areas where we use either ground sensors or camera counting. The whole initiative is about helping people make smarter transit decisions — especially in a city like LA, where traffic congestion is a serious problem.

METRO: Are these systems mostly installed at light rail and commuter rail stations?

Knell: Yes, primarily. But the scope includes a range of locations, such as those along the Gold Line expansion — San Dimas, Glendora, Pomona — and larger facilities like the one at LAX with over 300 spaces. We're also active along the A Line (formerly the Blue Line) and the Green Line, with sites like Avalon North, Crenshaw, and Long Beach East and West.

METRO: Is this project still ongoing, or have you wrapped up installations?

Knell: It’s ongoing. We’re aiming to complete everything by the end of this year. Some systems are live, but full integration — including signage and freeway alerts — will come once all installations are complete.

METRO: How has the feedback been so far?

Knell: Very positive, but since the project isn’t finished, its full impact hasn’t been realized yet. Once it’s fully operational — with all signage in place and data flowing in real time — it will be much more beneficial to commuters.

METRO: Any idea if people are actually leaving the freeway and using transit because of this system?

Knell: Not yet. The freeway signage component isn’t fully deployed. But once it is, the hope is to redirect drivers during traffic jams by letting them know there’s parking available at the next transit station.

LA Metro’s Next Phase

METRO: What’s next after this phase of the project?

Knell: Once the system is complete, LA Metro may offer a mobile app or integrate the data into their transit app so commuters can check parking availability before leaving home. Having used a similar system in Melbourne, I know how valuable that is. When you're deciding between two transit stations, real-time info helps avoid wasted trips and missed trains.

METRO: Do the cameras have any security functions?

Knell: They’re not designed for security, but they are capable of tracking incidents if necessary. With LA Metro planning to launch its own police force in a couple of years, there’s potential for this data to be used for added security as well.

METRO: Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Knell: There’s a study out of Seattle showing that when park-and-ride lots hit 90% capacity, ridership plateaus. At 100%, ridership declines. The whole point of this initiative is to better distribute demand by guiding people to available spaces and ultimately encourage more transit use.