BART Turns Empty Lots Into Revenue Stream
BART launches online portal for businesses to rent unused parking spaces, generating $6M
BART Rents Parking Lots to Businesses
BART's launched a new online tool that lets local businesses rent unused parking spaces at stations across the system. The transit agency said the program has generated $6 million in new revenue since the pandemic by leasing underutilized lots to companies. The new portal streamlines rentals for businesses seeking at least 25 spaces for six months or more, with interest primarily coming from companies needing employee and fleet vehicle parking.
Revenue Strategy Addresses Budget Gap
The parking rental program is part of BART's broader effort to generate revenue from existing assets as the agency faces a $376 million operating budget deficit in fiscal year 2027. Transit officials said the initiative helps offset financial challenges while making productive use of spaces that sit empty during reduced ridership periods. BART is leasing portions of parking lots at all stations except six that fill up on weekdays: Glen Park, MacArthur, Orinda, Rockridge, Walnut Creek, and West Oakland. During the pandemic, the agency repurposed parking lots for COVID testing sites, farmers markets, vaccination sites, and model home displays, demonstrating the flexibility of these assets.
Program Details and Restrictions
The rental program has specific restrictions to ensure parking remains available for transit riders and appropriate uses. Companies can't use spaces for long-term storage, nearby residence parking, or commercial activities like car rentals, transit officials said. BART also offers special event permits for community events at approximately $2,000 per day plus operational costs. Recent events include the 2025 Bizerkeley Food Fest at North Berkeley Station and The Wardrobe Project vintage market at Rockridge Station on third Saturdays. The agency said it continues to explore creative revenue-generating opportunities using existing resources.
Long-Term Development Plans
Beyond short-term rentals, BART's long-term plans include Transit-Oriented Development projects to build housing on parking lots and land at multiple stations. Transit officials said these projects represent a more permanent revenue strategy while supporting regional housing goals. The online portal launched recently makes the rental process more accessible to businesses, though officials didn't specify an exact launch date for the new system.
Impact on Riders and System
The parking rental program doesn't affect spaces needed for daily commuters, with BART maintaining availability at high-demand stations. Riders can continue using station parking as usual, with rental spaces limited to underutilized areas. Moovit provides real-time BART schedules and trip planning to help riders navigate the system and find the most convenient station parking options.
