US-based parking services provider Streetline and networking services company Cisco have introduced a new application whereby Apple and Android-based smartphone users in the cities of San Mateo and San Carlos, California, can access real-time information on parking availability.

The new system is a culmination of sensors, free Parker smartphone app from Streetline and an intelligent networking platform from Cisco.

The new service is expected to reduce traffic congestion, as experts estimate that nearly 30% of city traffic is due to drivers searching for parking. The system also helps the cities identify parking usage patterns.

Cisco’s smart routers collect parking space data from Streetline sensors deployed in the pavements of the selected parking spaces and transfer it to the Streetline cloud centre; the captured data is published on the application using Cisco’s networking platform.

The technology uses the end-to-end Cisco Wi-Fi network to display information on real-time parking availability through the Parker app.

Streetline’s Parker app features a hands-free voice navigation system that guides drivers to parking facilities, and provides details on time limits for on-street parking spaces.

It allows drivers to enter an address or search by points of interest, as well as mark areas on the Parker map to keep track of where a car is parked. Parking history data is also saved on the application.

"The new system is a culmination of sensors, free Parker smartphone app from Streetline and an intelligent networking platform from Cisco."

Cisco Industry Solutions executive vice president and chief globalisation officer Wim Elfrink said that smart Parking services have the capability to decrease congestion and create a new experience for city visitors, businesses and residents.

"Using the intelligence of the network as a way to connect what were previously unconnected areas opens up a number of new service opportunities for developing smarter communities," Elfrink noted.

The new parking system is currently available on Laurel Street between Olive Street and San Carlos Avenue in the City of San Carlos, and in downtown San Mateo near the intersection of 3rd Avenue and B Street.

Streetline and Cisco plan to make the real-time service available for laptop and desktop computers, using web browsers, in the coming months.