LOS ANGELES — One possible solution to Auburn’s parking issue might be found near the plush houses and rolling hills on the campus of the University of California, Los Angeles. I traveled here over spring break and found numerous similarities between Auburn’s campus and that of UCLA.
UCLA has approximately 12,000 more enrolled students than Auburn, but the campus is significantly more compact, taking up 419 acres to Auburn’s more than 1,800. What I found, like Auburn, is that UCLA is becoming more and more of a commuter school. More students are choosing to live a little farther away from the close confines of campus and driving to campus everyday.
Students, and administrators, concede parking is the one issue needing a resolution in Auburn. The dual construction projects of the new Student Center and new residence halls have removed (#) of available parking for faculty and students.
What students hate most of all is when they have to commute to campus for a five-minute meeting or a 50-minute class.
The hassle of getting to campus, sharking for a spot, walking to a building and doing it all over again in reverse is enough to make any of us frustrated.
UCLA is encountering and tackling the same issue.
How can we accommodate the growing amount of commuting students in a way that doesn’t take away from the massive growth this University is encountering?
One thing UCLA has done is created “pay for space” parking spaces and decks around major areas of campus. The student union, student activities center and major classroom buildings where students would need quick access.
These pay for space spots sit alongside zoned parking, much like Auburn’s A and B-Zones, but these spaces are open to the public.
Students, visitors, tourist are all allowed to park here, but for a price. Hence, pay for space.
However long a planned stop, that coincides with the amount of payment. Pay stations are located throughout the decks and lots that will take money and print a ticket that allows people to stay in that spot.
Only need that spot for 30 minutes? Only pay $1. Want to take it for eight hours? Pay more.
I saw this as an idea that Auburn could seemingly be a great benefactor.
David Ingram is the Editor of The Auburn Plainsman. You can reach him at 844-9021.
