The RTA Blog

In Central Minnesota, our parking lots go through a lot. Snow plows, salt, repetitive freeze-thaw cycles…it’s basically survival mode from November to March.  When the snow finally melts, what’s left isn’t very nice looking. • Faded stall lines • Faint ADA markings • Worn traffic arrows that confuse customers For...

Potholes don’t just happen.  They have evolved through a systematic process across their range in the asphalt jungle. They are especially good at finding the areas you drive and walk across. In this blog we discuss the life cycle of The Minnesota Pothole.  Chapter 1. The Spawn of the Crack....

Property managers and owners have a full schedule, and taking care of their parking lot is likely the last thing on their to-do list. Unfortunately, the appearance and functionality of your parking lot is your first and last impression. Having an understanding of pavement maintenance and a long-term plan for...

Although Midwest winters are beautiful, they are something to prepare for and can be tough on your parking lot. The snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and salt all take a toll on the surface of your lot. These winter elements are also hazardous to customers using your parking lot. Preparing for...

First impressions matter when you are a business owner, and that first impression doesn’t start when your customers walk through your doors. It happens in the parking lot. If your curb appeal is looking rough with cracked asphalt, fading lines, weedy edges, and overgrown plants, you are telling your customers...

A professional parking lot is valued by many. Property managers, business owners—anyone who drives a car can appreciate a well-organized parking lot. By smoothly guiding drivers through the area, it reflects a well ordered business interaction to come. First impressions matter, and a safe parking lot shows a safe and...

“What do you want to be when you grow up?” It’s one of the most common questions we ask young adults. What do they want to be? What big dreams do they have? Hearing them talk excitedly about their futures is a delight. But I never hear my job. No...

Clean, safe parking gives a good first impression to your customers. A nice, professionally painted parking lot goes a long way towards establishing this. Proper striping and marking create order and organization while visiting your location. However, over time, markings can fade or need replacement. Sometimes, changes are required to...

Standing out from the crowd is difficult in the business world. Fast changes are hard to keep up with, and trends are always changing. I’ve found a way to combat this by participating in my local Chamber of Commerce. Building strong relationships and community offers my business a leg up...

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was set to ensure equal opportunity for all Americans to enjoy and access the businesses and services they need. You create a welcoming environment for every visitor to your space by ensuring that your parking lot complies with ADA requirements. Handicapped spaces that are...

Have you ever pulled into an establishment’s parking lot and suddenly felt like you were driving across the moon? Cracks, potholes, uneven surfaces, and faded or missing pavement markings can lead to an uneasy and confusing parking experience. They can even make new customers less confident about doing business with...

Before a customer ever arrives at your front door or walks into your lobby, they’ve already gotten an impression of your business or establishment. No, it’s not the architecture of the building or even your decor that first welcomes them to your property – it’s your parking lot.  A professionally...