Campus News

UK PTS Named Parking Organization of the Year

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 25, 2010) - University of Kentucky Parking and Transportation Services (PTS) has been chosen as the International Parking Institute's (IPI) 2010 Parking Organization of the Year.

The award was presented May 12 during the Industry Gala event at the 2010 International Parking Institute Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, Nev., the largest, most comprehensive meeting of parking and transportation professionals held in the world.

"The recognition attained by Parking and Transportation Services is a tribute to the efforts of our employees and the support of a university leadership that is sensitive to the needs of faculty, staff and students," said Don Thornton, director of Parking & Transportation Services.

PTS was honored for being “more than just parking spaces and buses.” Among the accomplishments listed in PTS’ winning submission were the addition of the parking and transportation information radio station, the car sharing program, the department’s use of social media and the newly-launched Ride Home Express offered during academic breaks.

“The University of Kentucky’s Parking and Transportation Services exemplify how talented and dedicated parking professionals can favorably impact their community,” said Shawn Conrad, executive director of the International Parking Institute.

PTS will be featured in the June 2010 issue of The Parking Professional magazine for its leadership in the industry and innovative solutions, along with other award recipients and finalists.

"I appreciate the challenges that our parking and transportation department faces every day and have been continually impressed by their innovative thinking and commitment to improve campus access at the University of Kentucky," said Assistant Vice President for Campus Services Anthany Beatty.

"In what can sometimes be a thankless profession, it brings me great joy to see them recognized by their peers for their outstanding work and commitment to excellence. This honor is well deserved."

IPI's Professional Recognition program is in its fourth year. Nominations are accepted on an annual basis and judged by a select committee of regular members appointed by the IPI chairman of the board.  

Finalists for the Parking Organization of the Year were the University of Georgia, the Philadelphia Parking Authority and the Winnipeg Parking Authority.

Founded in 1962, the International Parking Institute is the largest trade association representing the parking industry. Members include professionals from a wide variety of organizations, including cities, academic institutions and urban planners. More information is available at www.parking.org.