Motorists next year should have access to accurate parking information before visiting their favorite Indiana Dunes National Park attractions, thanks to a technology grant from the National Park Foundation.
Save the Dunes announced recently that it received a $625,000 foundation grant that will be used to deploy sensors and data systems to help solve parking dilemmas.
Betsy Maher, executive director of Save the Dunes, said the goal is to reduce traffic congestion, improve safety and mobility, and create a more predictable and welcoming experience for the park’s approximately 2.65 million annual visitors.
“We are grateful to the National Park Foundation and Save the Dunes for investing in an innovative solution that will benefit both the park and our surrounding communities,” Leo Lestino, acting superintendent for the Indiana Dunes National Park, said in a release.
Maher said the grant from the National Park Foundation is a new initiative to support innovation for improving park experiences. Save the Dunes will be working alongside the Indiana Dunes National Park to install the new system.
The grant is one of the first awarded by the foundation as part of a new, dedicated effort to support innovation to strengthen parks, according to a release.
A decision hasn’t been made yet on what system to use, Maher said.
But it would probably resemble something like the cellphone apps available for the Metra and CTA systems that relay information about parking at stations in the Chicago area, Maher said.
“The goal is to provide visitors with useful, timely information about parking availability so they can make better decisions before reaching congested areas,” Maher said.
There are six popular sites identified: Cowles Bog Trail, Porter Beach, Lake View Beach, Kemil Beach, Dunbar Beach and Central Beach.
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The final locations are subject to any adjustments that might occur during implementation, Maher said.
Michael Barry, Porter’s development director and building commissioner, welcomed the news.
Porter’s Town Council had sent along an endorsement letter supporting Save the Dunes when they applied for the National Park Foundation grant earlier this year.
On some days, the Porter Police Department gets called to help direct traffic around Porter Beach because of the crowded parking.
Motorists now have no idea when they head to Porter Beach if they can get a parking space.
There are situations where there is traffic congestion and no easy way to turn around in the Porter Beach neighborhood.
“This should help the police,” Barry said, noting that if motorists have accurate information, they can explore alternatives.
Meanwhile, Maher said Save the Dunes will begin the planning, design, procurement and coordination for the system with the National Park Service.
The installation of the sensors, communications equipment and dynamic message signs will occur over the fall and winter months.
It’s hoped that everything will be in place by Memorial Day 2027, the start of peak summer visitation season, Maher said.
Jim Woods is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.