It makes sense for the city of Lawrence to develop a comprehensive parking plan given the historic issues surrounding parking downtown and the rapid development of downtown apartments and condominiums that are sure to add to the parking pressures.

At its most recent meeting, the City Commission voted to request proposals from parking consultants “to assist the city with the development of a 10 year operational and development plan for the city’s parking system in the Downtown District and residential areas around the University of Kansas.”

Mayor Mike Amyx said the city’s lack of a comprehensive parking plan is clear and that development in the affected areas have increased the demand for parking.

“I think it’s fairly apparent that problems exist because the streets are full of parked cars,” Amyx said. “On one hand, it’s a good problem to have because there are a lot of people in and around our downtown, but obviously it puts a lot of pressure elsewhere for parking, especially during big event times.”

City officials said they expect the plan to upgrade parking meter technology. Brandon McGuire, assistant to the city manager, noted the current coin-fed meters operate on technology that is six or seven decades old. New technology can allow for credit card payments, smart phone payments and apps that allow residents to reserve parking in advance.

But while new technology would be welcome, the most important issue a comprehensive parking plan must address is zoning for development. At present, zoning law doesn’t require downtown businesses or apartment projects to provide any off-street parking. All developments, both new and existing, can legally rely solely on public parking spaces throughout downtown.

Multiple large-scale apartment complexes have been built in recent years, adding hundreds of new residents — and their cars — downtown and in neighborhoods around KU. The parking challenges created by the HERE apartment complex near Memorial Stadium being the latest example. McGuire said the strategic plan will address clear parking policies when it comes to new developments.

Adequate parking is a core infrastructure need for any city. Lawrence is right to seek a comprehensive plan that looks at new parking strategies, tests new systems and ensures that new development pays its way when it comes to parking.