To Demarcate or Not to Demarcate: Analysis of Marked Versus Unmarked On-Street Parking Efficiency

Curb space is a valuable asset for urban areas. The space is a finite resource with competing needs from various modes, land uses, and customers. In this context, when the curb space is used for parking, it is important that the space be used as efficiently as possible. There is no unanimous conclusion on whether a demarcated or undemarcated curbside configuration accommodates more vehicles. Most information on this subject is conflicting and anecdotal. This paper presents the results of an in-depth analysis with modeling and field data collection to determine whether a specific configuration is beneficial from a utilization standpoint. It also reviews the state-of-the-practice on demarcating on-street parking spaces and the results of a survey of local jurisdictions’ policies and practice and the logic behind the decision-making process. The authors conclude that factors other than efficiency might drive the decision to demarcate (or not).