It is the main objective of this paper to formulate a framework, informed by a systematic appraisal of car parking policy issues concerning Nigeria's most densely populated, built-up and economic/industrial nerve centre, and which is appropriate in terms of response to the dynamic interrelationship between demand for, and supply of parking facilities over time, in Lagos. In recognition of the fact that available information is characterised by a complex and multidimensional nature, the presentation proposes an integration of geographic/guidance information and artificial intelligence systems and mechanisms, as a decision support technology, designed to provide a means of automating certain reasoning types, associated with car parking systems' management. Analytical results obtained and discussed in the paper indicate that the problems of car parking in metropolitan Lagos are best addressed through continuous estimation of parking needs based on artificial intelligence aided techniques. In addition, the optimum utilisation of all existing parking facilities can be promoted through regular maintenance, efficient management legislation and conducive enforcement environment, coupled with enlightenment and traffic issues-related education.
Abstract