New Parking Rates and Functions at CAE from May 1, 2024

Changes to Foster Enhanced Parking Experience

(Columbia, SC) – Starting from Wednesday, May 1, 2024, Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) will modify the parking rates to facilitate new parking functionalities and assist the continuous upgrades in its parking facilities. The daily rate in the Surface Parking Lot will hike from $10 to $12, and the Garage Parking Lot fees will go up from $14 to $17.

Existing Reservations to remain unaffected

CAE ensures that the customers who pre-booked parking reservations before May 1, 2024, will not be affected by this rate change and honored at the rate of the existing transaction.

Investments for Improved Functionality

“Two years ago, we invested in a parking guidance system in the parking garage and that feature continues to be one our passengers appreciate and find helpful in locating open parking spaces,” quoted Mike Gula, CAE’s President & CEO. He further added, “The revenue generated from this increase will go to additional enhancements like this one, aiming to make our passenger’s overall parking experience as easy and convenient as possible.”

Introduction of ParkMobile

In recent months, CAE introduced ParkMobile, a contactless parking management system. This system has been installed and is currently available across both the Surface and Garage Parking Lots. The mobile application is available to download from the App Store and can be stored on a mobile device. Customers can input their credit card details into the app, making payment automatic upon entry into a lot. Upon completion of a trip, a QR code is sent to the mobile device, indicating the clearance of payment. This QR code is then used in the exit lane as signified by the overhead signage. The app also stores all receipts and past transactions, making the recall of needed information quick and feasible.

Updates to Continue due to Increase

Some of the ongoing updates to CAE’s parking facilities that will remain because of this increase include:

Ongoing operation of pre-book parking software and platform management system.
Installation of a second ADA accessible elevator in the Garage Parking Lot.
General maintenance in the Garage Parking Lot such as restriping, skylight resealing, and pressure washing.
Regular landscaping of both parking lots and grounds.

Handicap parking will stay free for the first day of parking with valid credentials, with all subsequent days charged at the regular rate of the chosen lot.