LTC 315-2013 In-Car Parking Meter Ipark - Update MIAMI BEACH
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
NO. LTC # 31SS LETTER TO COMWtSeN n
TO: Mayor Matti Herrera Bower and
Members of the City Commission
FROM: Jimmy L. Morales, City Manager
DATE: September 5, 2013
SUBJECT: IN -CAR PARKING METER (IPARK ) — UPDATE
This LTC serves to provide an update of the most recent developments regarding
the in -car parking meter (Park) and its manufacturer, ePark. The Park is an in -car
parking meter that was implemented in 2008, as an alternative payment platform for
metered parking.
Last year, the City was notified by ePark of their decision to discontinue the
production, distribution, and support of the Park Model 1.0 (first generation). ePark
further advised that a second generation device, termed EOS, was in production
and assured us a seamless transition between devices. EOS was promised to have
updated technology and enhanced features making its use and operation more user
friendly than its predecessor. The 1.0 Model had its shortcomings. Customers had
experienced failing liquid crystal displays caused by direct sunlight/heat, and loss of
data, including reload values.
Subsequently, ePark advised that they were discontinuing production of the 1.0
Model and that the EOS Model would be available as its replacement; however, it
would have the same functionality as the 1.0 Model until such time that the
enhanced features were available.
0
This raised concerns regarding the functionality and reliability of the EOS model.
Numerous conference calls were held with ePark regarding functionality and
reliability of the EOS. ePark was required to have the EOS undergo environmental
testing by a third party laboratory. While the results from the tests were
satisfactory, the Administration proceeded cautiously and purchased a limited
number of units to confirm these results. Unfortunately, after only several days of
sales, we had no choice but to recall the units due to software issues. All EOS units
were returned to ePark for corrective action. The sale of EOS units was suspended
until such time that its functionality and reliability could be vetted and resolved
satisfactorily.
On August 30"', ePark notified us that because of the failure of the EOS units, it can
no longer support the device and that they were "shutting down" their operation and
business. As a result, Park users that have an active reload and balance of unused
time may continue to use their device as intended. However, no further reloads will
be available once the current values are exhausted.
Alternative Payment Platform — Pay by Phone
From an industry perspective, pay by phone service is the next progression in
technology. Pay by phone offers more flexibility than an in -car parking meter
platform. These enhancements include: freedom from having to purchase, display,
or repair a device; and no need to purchase reloads. Additionally,. pay by phone
subscribers, who are Miami Beach residents, will enjoy the same discounted
parking meter rate in South Beach as in -car meter users.
As you may recall, a formal competitive procurement process is underway and an
item will be on the City Commission Agenda, on September 11, 2013, seeking an
approval for an award for this service. If the award is approved, a pay by phone
service is expected to be operational by the first quarter of the 2014 calendar year.
If you should any further questions and /or inquiries, please contact Saul Frances,
Parking Director at 305.673.7000, extension 6483.
JLM /PDW /S
f:pin I/ MO /InCarMeteriParkUpdate.ltc.doc
C: Patricia Walker, Chief Financial Officer
Kathie Brooks, Assistant City Manager
Joe Jimenez, Assistant City Manager
Mark Taxis, Assistant City Manager
Saul Frances, Parking Director
Rocio Alba, Assistant Parking Director
Marcia Monserrat, Special Projects Coordinator