American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is the parking ratio for office and medical centers?

1. 1:10 to 3:4

2. 1:2000 to 3:1000

3. 1:300

4. 1:1000 to 5:1000

The correct answer is: 1:300

The parking ratio for office and medical centers is commonly established to ensure that there is sufficient parking available for the staff, patients, and visitors. A ratio of 1:300 indicates that for every 300 square feet of office or medical space, there is provision for one parking space. This standard is often used because it reflects typical usage patterns for such facilities, considering both employees and clients, especially in a medical context where appointment schedules can lead to concentrated periods of demand. This ratio is selected based on planning studies and zoning ordinances that consider factors like expected occupancy rates, peak usage times, and local context such as public transportation availability and urban versus suburban settings. In urban areas, the ratio might be smaller due to better access to public transit, while suburban areas may require more parking due to less transit availability. Other ratios presented might not align as closely with common planning practice for office and medical centers. For instance, a ratio like 1:1000 to 5:1000 may be overly high and impractical, leading to excessive land use for parking, while the narrower range of 1:2000 to 3:1000 does not adequately reflect the typical needs of office and medical facilities. Therefore, the choice of 1: