New York Real Estate Journal

RockFarmer Properties opens AI-driven automated parking garage

April 11, 2023 - Owners Developers & Managers

Queens, NY RockFarmer Properties has opened the borough’s first AI-driven automated parking garage offering users a parking solution that is secure, convenient and efficient.

Located at the recently completed luxury condominium The Rowan (21-21 31st St.) in Astoria, the 96-space parking facility uses  technology to park and retrieve vehicles, making the process quick and effortless for drivers. The system is equipped with advanced sensors and automated lift mechanisms, allowing cars to be parked in tight spaces without any human intervention, and utilizes AI to learn behaviors of customer’s driving habits —such as what time they typically leave each morning and to deliver vehicles faster over time.

“The future of parking has arrived in Queens,” said John Petras, principal of RockFarmer Properties. “We are excited to finally see the system in operation, providing much-needed parking for local residents, shoppers and commuters looking for a safe, efficient place to park their vehicles.”

Designed by U-tron, The Rowan’s AI-driven automated parking system utilizes technology and automation to park and retrieve vehicles. Drivers drive their vehicles into the parking bay where the vehicle is automatically scanned and measured to determine its size and shape. The vehicle is then transferred on a dedicated pallet to its designated parking space via an automated lift. To retrieve the car, the driver uses an app or an electronic ticket system to request their vehicle. The automated mechanism then retrieves the vehicle and returns it to one of two parking bays.

Not only is the automated parking garage more convenient for drivers, but it also offers increased safety features, including 24/7 video surveillance, and is safeguarded from the elements, such as snow, rain, wind and extreme temperatures. The facility is also eco-friendly, reducing emissions from vehicles and minimizing the need for fuel consumption during parking.

In addition, the automated system offers higher efficiencies as vehicles can be parked closely together, creating additional parking in densely populated areas where space is at a premium. According to RockFarmer Properties, the developer was able to include 50% more spaces compared to a traditional parking facility.

GGMC Parking, which has more than 20 locations throughout New York City, is managing and operating the automated garage, which is open 24/7, making it easy to reserve a space and retrieve your vehicle. The facility also accepts all major credit cards and offers competitive rates. 

“As a developer, I think the automated system is a game changer. It allowed us to create approximately 50 additional parking spots while greatly increasing the size of our retail spaces, which in turn is a benefit to us as a developer as well as the condominium owners,” said Petras. “With Lincoln Market and Northwell Health slated to open in the next few months, employees and customers will also benefit from the direct, convenient access to parking; it’s a huge advantage to know you can drive to your doctor’s appointment or shop for groceries without having to worry about public transportation or paying for a taxi. We are excited to see how the system changes people’s habits; it really revolutionizes parking.” 

GGMC Parking is offering a special introductory monthly rate of $149 on all monthly contracts signed through May 31, 2023.

Designed by New York City-based DXA Studio, The Rowan is located in the heart of Astoria’s Ditmars neighborhood on 31st St. between Ditmars Blvd. and 21st Ave. near many of the area’s best schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and nightlife. The Rowan also enjoys close proximity to Astoria Park and offers convenient transportation options including the N and W subway lines and close access to the East River Ferry, BQE, Grand Central Parkway, RFK Bridge and LaGuardia Airport.