‘QUICK PAY’ PARKING WILL MEAN SMOOTH DEPARTURE AT PORTLAND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Conceptually called “Quick Pay,” the new program is scheduled for launch in fall 2004 and will serve motorists using the airport’s parking garage and longterm parking lot. Automated parking payment machines located in the parking garage and at parking lot shuttle bus shelters will eliminate the need to wait in traffic lines for cashiers at exit booths. Some cashiers will remain for those who prefer the current method of payment.

Under the new system, the motorist will:
· enter the garage or long-term lot and receive a parking ticket,
· take the ticket while in the airport or while traveling,
· stop at one of the many automated payment machines while walking out of the airport,
· insert the ticket in the machine and pay the required amount by cash or credit card,
· receive another receipt, and
· insert the receipt in the machine at the exit gate and drive out of the parking facilities.

A simplified system that allows the motorist to simply insert a credit card in a machine when entering and departing any airport parking facility will also be available, including at the economy parking lot, where existing cashiers will also remain.

“Our ultimate goal is to improve customer service for motorists using our parking lots,” said Dan Brame, Port of Portland parking supervisor. “This type of system is gaining popularity throughout the world because it reduces the average exit time to just a few seconds.”

Port Commissioners today approved the program and budget of $7.9 million for purchase of automated pay station equipment, reconstruction of the exit booths and parking office, and development of signage to assist customers.