Richmond, VA – The City of Richmond’s Parking Enterprise Division has achieved the status of an Accredited Parking Organization (APO) with Distinction from the International Parking & Mobility Institute (IPMI). This recognition places Richmond among the top organizations in the parking, transportation, and mobility sector.
The APO designation acknowledges best practices in responsible parking management, customer service, professional development, sustainability, access management, safety, data security, and risk management.
“This designation is earned each and every day by the men and women of our Parking Enterprise Division,” said Gail Johnson, Richmond Director of General Services. “I have the privilege of witnessing this commitment to excellence firsthand and am thrilled to see their hard work and devotion recognized in such a way.”
Shawn Conrad, CEO of IPMI, explained that “this achievement is the top benchmark of success in our industry,” following a comprehensive documentation and review process. He added that “only best-of-class organizations can meet the demanding level of excellence required to gain accreditation.”
To achieve APO Accreditation, organizations must demonstrate ongoing evaluation and improvement through industry best practices. They collaborate with third-party reviewers to present evidence across more than 100 criteria in 14 categories plus 25 required criteria. To earn APO with Distinction, Richmond met over 60 additional exceptional practices within these categories.
“Parking isn’t flashy, but it’s vital to our City,” said Lynne Lancaster, Deputy Director of the Parking Enterprise Division. “We are proud to have earned this designation and will work in all ways to build upon a legacy of best-in-class service for Richmonders and visitors alike.”
The distinction was presented at the annual IPMI meeting in Louisville, KY.


