Nicholls students voice concerns over limited parking spots

At the start of every semester, there are bound to be issues, however, one problem students can’t seem to escape is what feels like the limited amount of parking spots on campus.

Students with early enough classes normally don’t have issues with finding parking, but by midmorning, parking lots may appear full.

According to University Police, student parking is limited to gray or unpainted spaces. Commuter students must have a commuter decal and park only in zones not directly connected to a residence hall. Residents need a residential decal, and can only park in the spaces next to a residence hall.

Accounting sophomore Cameron Maheu said that one morning, the Ellender residence parking lot was the only parking available at 9 a.m. He said he feels there are more people on campus than last year, and that leaves fewer parking spots.

Pre-Vet major Kristen Weimer said she doesn’t have a problem parking when attending her early morning class, but if she leaves campus mid-day and comes back, she cannot find parking.

According to University Police, they have been trying to address the parking issues around campus. After evaluating parking spaces near academic buildings, 36 additional parking spaces were added for students on Acadian Drive and Madewood Drive. These parking spots were put in place to allow more students to park legally and avoid parking tickets.

University Police reports updating their information on parking services to their website, and continue to work on improving the situation. Parking Services hours have also changed its operating hours to start at 7 a.m., which gives students a chance to purchase parking decals before class.

Although parking far away from a classroom is not ideal, it might be necessary when arriving on campus later in the day. Parking near John L. Guidry Stadium is an option for students seeking parking spots.

For students interested in avoiding the stress of parking altogether or who don’t regularly come to campus, University Police said students should take the bus. Good Earth Transit provides low fares at $1 a ride or a $ 2.50-day pass.