In the city of Mendoza, drivers are beginning to experience a new way of managing parking on several of its busiest streets. This digital metered parking system arrives with the goal of making more efficient use of available spaces and, above all, reducing chaos in key areas of the city. Below, from Rentennials we tell you how this new form of parking works and how it could affect your experience renting a car in Mendoza.
What does digital metered parking in Mendoza consist of?
The digital metered parking system implemented in some areas of Mendoza is a step toward a more modern and practical management of public space. Unlike the old card system, in which cards had to be placed on the windshield, everything is now managed through a mobile application. Additionally, for those who do not use smartphones, there are authorized points of sale where payment can be made in the traditional way.
Which areas of Mendoza will use this system?
For the moment, the system is being tested in key areas of the city such as Arístides Villanueva, Juan B. Justo, Belgrano, Sarmiento and Tiburcio Benegas. These areas, known for their high vehicle traffic, have been chosen to implement this system, and if the pilot is successful, it will gradually be extended to other streets in Mendoza.
How does the metered parking app implemented by the city of Mendoza work?
To use the new system, drivers must download the SEM Mendoza app, available through a QR code found on the signs in each zone. Once the app is downloaded, the process is simple:
1. Registration:
You must register with your phone number, email address and phone service provider in the app
Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ar.edu.unlp.semmobile.mendoza&pcampaignid=web_share
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/ar/app/sem-mobile/id1387705895
2. Add Vehicle Details:
Enter the license plate of the vehicle you are parking.
3. Start parking:
Select the "start parking" option and calculate the time you need.
4. Payment:
Make the payment in prepaid mode within the app or at one of the points of sale.
The system is completely digital, eliminating the need to physically interact with machines or card dispensers. Payment is made in advance, ensuring that parking is paid before occupying the space.
Benefits of this new system
Convenience: By being able to manage parking through the app, drivers don't have to worry about carrying cash or looking for a card holder.
Flexibility: If you don't have the app, you can make the payment at authorized points of sale, ensuring accessibility for everyone.
Expiration Notices: The app will send you an alert when your parking is about to expire, allowing you to add more time if needed.
Greater Efficiency: Digitalization improves the organization of spaces, and if successful, it could be applied to more areas of the city.
What happens when the parking period ends?
One of the interesting features of this system is that it allows drivers to adjust their parking time flexibly. If your parking is about to expire, you will receive a notification to reload. If you don't, you could face a fine, similar to traditional metered parking systems.
Impact of the System on Drivers
Although this new system has many benefits, such as convenience and ease of payment, it also poses some challenges for drivers who are not familiar with technology. However, the fact that a grace period is maintained until March 31 free of charge gives users time to familiarize themselves with the system and adapt.
For frequent drivers in these areas, this change may come as a relief, as the app promises to make parking payment and management processes much more efficient. Furthermore, by eliminating the need to handle cash or physical cards, it enables a faster and more modern experience.
Why is this change important for urban mobility?
The digital metered parking system not only optimizes the use of parking spaces, but can also have a significant impact on urban mobility. With the ability to monitor and manage parking in real time, the amount of time drivers spend looking for a parking spot is reduced. This contributes to smoother and less congested traffic flow, which improves the quality of life in urban areas.
In a context of more sustainable and technology-driven cities, the implementation of systems like this marks the beginning of an era of greater efficiency in urban space management.
What can you expect in the future?
If the digital metered parking system continues to succeed, it could become a trend that spreads to other cities, becoming a model for parking management in urban environments. This is one more step toward the digitalization of mobility and the use of technology to improve the daily lives of citizens.
As a driver, adapting to these changes may seem challenging at first, but the long-term benefits outweigh the drawbacks, especially with the flexibility that the new system offers.
Conclusion
Mendoza's new digital metered parking system is a step forward in urban mobility management. With the ability to pay easily and quickly through a mobile app or point-of-sale terminals, this change promises to improve parking efficiency throughout the city. It is an opportunity for drivers to take advantage of technology in their daily lives and contribute to a more organized and sustainable city.
Rent with Rentennials:
We always recommend renting with Rentennials, the easiest, most affordable and secure platform to rent cars from local hosts. Go to Rentennials
