American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

A common width for a two-way aisle in a parking lot is typically?

1. 18-20 feet

2. 24-26 feet

3. 28-30 feet

4. 30-32 feet

The correct answer is: 24-26 feet

The typical width for a two-way aisle in a parking lot is generally around 24 to 26 feet. This width allows sufficient space for vehicles traveling in both directions to pass each other comfortably while accommodating the swing of vehicle doors when they are opened. Design standards often take into account the size and maneuverability of vehicles, as well as safety concerns regarding both pedestrians and drivers. Aisles that fall within this range promote efficient traffic flow and reduce the risk of accidents within the parking area. While wider aisles can provide greater maneuverability, they also reduce the available parking space in a lot. Hence, the selected width strikes a balance between safety and maximizing parking efficiency, making it the preferred choice in standard parking lot designs.