AN ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY OF UNDERGROUND PARKING LOT DEVELOPMENTS IN JAPAN

Abstract In Japan, the development of parking lots is important to achieving a comfortable urban environment, and effective use of underground space is particularly necessary in congested cities. However, maintaining a proper environment in underground parking lots (UPLs) requires more equipment and consumes more energy than typical aboveground parking lots (APLs). This study compares UPLs with APLs with regard to 1) the environment, 2) special maintenance features, and 3) workers' subjective evaluations (as measured by questionnaire). The result of the research showed that UPLs had equipment loads and energy consumption than did APLs. Common psychological problems associated with underground space also were covered in the questionnaire. The study also suggests possible ways of reducing negative perceptions of UPLs, e.g., by providing elevators.