ROCS: Smart Carpooling System for the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Research Question
What is the effectiveness of a mobile app-based carpooling system with a jointly coordinated parking assignment and ride-matching (PARM) system in reducing traffic congestion and competition for parking spaces at the University of Puerto Rico Mayaguez campus?
Abstract
This research project proposes a solution to the growing problem of traffic congestion and limited parking availability at the University of Puerto Rico Mayaguez campus through the development of a Smart Carpool System. The system integrates travel demand management (TDM) strategies to reduce the number of cars on the road and incentivize users to share rides by providing reserved parking spots in exchange. The project is a collaboration between the University of Puerto Rico Mayaguez and the University of South Florida, sponsored by the National Institute for Congestion Reduction (NICR). The outcome of this research will provide insights into the effectiveness of using a mobile app-based carpooling system with a PARM system to address traffic congestion and parking availability issues at the university campus.
Description
This project introduces a free-of-charge mobile application, ROCS Carpool, designed to facilitate carpooling among UPRM students, enabling them to commute together to and from the university. Participants will be granted a reserved parking space in the controlled access parking lot located in front of the Espada Gymnasium in Area Blanca. The primary goal of this project is to alleviate the substantial demand for limited parking spaces on campus, mitigate traffic congestion in surrounding areas, and enhance the overall parking and transportation experience for students.
Objectives
1. Develop a proof-of-concept mobile application that integrates the mathematical optimization model used to find the optimal matches.
2. Determine the effectiveness of a mobile app-based carpooling system with a jointly coordinated parking assignment and ride-matching (PARM) system in reducing traffic congestion and competition for parking spaces.
Presentation Video
Research Poster
