Analysis of parking spaces as factor leading to traffic Congestion in central business (CBD) district in Dar es

Abstract

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was how the parking places contribute to traffic congestion in Central Business District at Dar es Salaam (CBD), Primary and Secondary sources of data were used to collect information. Documentary review on journals, new papers and books were used to collect secondary data; and questioners and interview were used to collect primary data. Data were analyze by using Microsoft excel and were presented in form of Tables and explanations were given those findings. Summary of the study revealed that Poor management of parking which include on-street, parking lots, parking garages, public and private. Also, too much car parking in the wrong location results into large flows of cars to local streets, hence causes traffic congestion. Parking and traffic congestion were inter-related in the sense that the absence of parking spaces results to traffic congestion situations. It is concluded that, there are many challenges on determining how parking places contribute to traffic congestion in Central Business District at Dar es Salaam (CBD).The challenges are lack of safety and comfort for the pedestrian movement, inadequacy of parking spaces, rapid increase in number of cars, inadequate road infrastructure, insufficient of location of parking places, favorable parking prices (cost charges) and demand for parking is greater than the amount of space available It is recommended that shared parking in the destinations should be encouraged also public parking including on-street, municipality’s off street and commercial parking (for profit) facilities generally may serve multiple destinations. Special shuttle buses or free transit service may be provided, building of underground and upstairs packinghouse should be emphasized so as to reduce the amount of land required for parking facilities, reduce the use of private automobile and increase an affordable and reliable public transport. Rates should be set to optimize parking facility use. Parking charge to be increased. Introduction of modern railway transport systems across the city. Diversification of basic social services from city center to other areas outside the city, Introduction of Restrictive policy should implemented.