New Parking Structure Set to Boost Accessibility for Patients and Staff
The Zina Pitcher Parking Structure, a newly constructed facility adjacent to the University of Michigan's state-of-the-art D. Dan and Betty Kahn Health Care Pavilion, is set to open on December 16, 2025. As families and health professionals gear up for its launch, this 570-space parking lot promises to offer a vital solution to the growing demand for parking on the bustling medical campus.
This facility is not only a convenience but also an integral part of the university's commitment to enhancing patient and visitor experiences. It will house over 300 Gold permit spaces aimed at benefiting blue permit holders and consolidates parking resources to streamline accessibility.
Your First Look: Technology Meets Convenience
In the age of technology, the new parking structure will be the first on-campus facility to fully employ license plate recognition systems. This innovative setup means that as soon as drivers enter, automatic gate arms will lift upon verification of their virtual permits, making the parking experience swift and hassle-free. For those occasions when a license plate is not easily readable, drivers can also use their UM MCard for entry, providing multiple layers of accessibility.
Planning for the Future: Sustainability Initiatives
A focal point for the University of Michigan is sustainability, and the Zina Pitcher Parking Structure embodies that vision. Designed to reduce embodied carbon by about 20% through specialized concrete mixtures, this facility also has future plans for rooftop solar installation. Additionally, elevators designed to convert kinetic energy from braking into usable electricity illustrate a forward-thinking approach to modern building practices. By eliminating the need for powered mechanical ventilation, the project further emphasizes the university’s commitment to eco-friendly infrastructure.
Meet the Growing Needs of Our Community
As the new hospital expands its medical services, the last thing patients and their families need is to worry about parking. The D. Dan and Betty Kahn Health Care Pavilion, boasting 690,000 square feet of medical space, welcomes patients requiring a variety of treatments, including inpatient care and surgical procedures. With the construction of the Zina Pitcher Parking Structure, the university aims to support this expanded operation by improving access through adequate parking facilities.
Local Impact and Community Connection
This project represents more than just a parking facility; it's a part of a larger initiative to enhance overall healthcare accessibility in the Ann Arbor region. As the hospital begins to serve its busy community, the availability of dedicated parking will play a crucial role in easing anxiety for families navigating medical care. The design elements ensure that both patients and physicians can focus on what truly matters—healthcare.
As the opening day approaches, anticipation builds among local residents and healthcare professionals alike. Families eager for relief during medical visits can expect a significant alleviation of parking woes as they visit the new facility.
Stay tuned for more updates on the opening of the new parking structure, and visit our Ann Arbor news page for ongoing local coverage.
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