Major city downtowns experience parking and congestion problems. Both problems can be improved by reducing single-occupancy vehicle use. Several factors affect transportation users’ mode choice. This study investigated parking users’ profile in Miami-Dade County, Florida, USA. The study investigated users’ attitude towards alternative modes of transportation and the most common reasons for driving single-occupancy vehicles.

Parking data were obtained using a parking user survey distributed at representative locations throughout the county to cover all available types of parking facilities.

Survey results showed that parking was available and accessible. Most automobile users drove because driving was quicker and nearby transit services were not convenient. There was no formalized incentive structure for carpooling or vanpooling. A high percentage of respondents had an employer-paid parking subsidy.

Majority of automobile users were either willing to switch to an alternative transportation modes for the least suggested parking price increase or not willing to switch at all. Most automobile users who drove for business purposes were not willing to switch mode and ride transit, no matter how much parking prices increase.

The study recommends adopting pricing and accessibility policies to manage parking, encourage the use of high-occupancy vehicles, and thus improve traffic congestion in downtown areas.