Hotel and retail functions completely mask the freestanding, Multimodal Parking Facility from pedestrian view.  The ground level of this internalized parking structure provides covered loading and unloading for passenger vehicles, taxies, and busses.  On this level are also short-term retail parking and hotel valet / drop-off.  Underground parking is reserved for the C.T.A. park-and-ride lot, which has tripled the number of existing spaces.  Meanwhile, upper floors are reserved for the Obama Presidential Center and long-term parking.  The parking facility and hotel are surmounted by a large array of photovoltaic panels which, together with an overall low-consumption design, support the renewable energy needs of the complex.

Note that deliveries, secured drop-off, and access to the service yard are all accomplished from the lower level of Garfield Boulevard, freeing the street environment from the noise and unsightly aspects of running a large institutional complex.

Three entrances to the parking facility are established by utilizing its through-block configuration on the existing street grid:  To the north, long-term parking on the upper levels is accessed.  Mid-block on South Prairie Avenue, typical public access is provided for C.T.A. parking and retail.  To the south is an entry specifically for tour busses and loading of various kinds.  This entry point, accessed from westbound Garfield Boulevard following the 180-degree entropion at its terminus, provides touring visitors with the full processional experience of approaching the Center, gracefully sweeping through the arc of Obama Square at the base of the Beacon of Hope before reaching their unloading destination.

After having arrived by vehicle, C.T.A. train, bicycle, or on-foot, the primary entries for large groups are provided through the sheltered Wintergarden, described on the following slide.

All functionality of the Obama Presidential Center is expressed in its planning.  As such, other key functions such as the Chicago Public Library, Offices of the Barack Obama Foundation, and the Arts Block Extension all have dedicated street frontage and entries.  The Foundation in particular is much more visible, with a proper formal entry off of South Calumet Avenue and dedicated loading zones for both visitors and the Presidential motorcade, permitting it to engage more potently with the city at-large.