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The Asbury Park City Council has awarded TimHaahs, a Blue Bell, Pa-based engineering and architectural firm, a preliminary contract to design a 500 space garage, officials have announced.

T&M Associates, Clarke Caton Hintz and 4ward Planning will assist in the design work needed for the garage, which will be located off Main Street in the municipal complex that also houses City Hall, the Police Department and Transportation Center.

“Due to the city’s tremendous growth, parking availability is obviously something we’ve been struggling with in Asbury Park,” Councilwoman Eileen Chapman said. “It’s an especially important topic for our downtown businesses community as it affects their livelihood. We are pleased to be able to offer a parking solution close to downtown.”

The $227,000 contract includes the overall design and schematic design documents, a site feasibility assessment to identify a preferred location within 1 Municipal Plaza, a land survey, environmental site assessment, soils and foundation report, and a traffic impact report.

“We’re thrilled to be moving forward with this project,” Mayor John Moor said in a written statement. “Adding parking supply for our residents, visitors and employees of downtown businesses has been a goal. Increasing the parking supply is one piece of the puzzle in addition to providing alternative forms of transportation.”

This year, Transportation Manager Michael Manzella added scooter to the city’s ride-sharing program, which began with the Zagster bicycle share program. The first of three electric charging stations is now complete, lending for the inclusion of a car-sharing program.

The preliminary design concepts will be presented during a 7 pm public input session on Nov 13 in City Council Chamber.

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