By Cody Dowless
Triton’s Call Staff
As a new academic year begins, the University continues to face qualms about the parking situation on campus.
Last year, UOG designated temporary parking areas beside the Field House and in the grassy area in front of the HSS and EC buildings.
According to Randall Wiegand, UOG vice president of administration and finance, the lots have been in place for more than a year now, but they are not permanent fixtures.
“It is likely the overflow parking will remain in effect for a few years, but we do not consider it permanent,” Wiegand said.
The overflow lots have added 700 new spaces for vehicles coming into the University. Yet despite this, some students remain feeling unsatisfied about the parking available.
“I have to get to campus a bit earlier if I want to be on time to class. I was late a few times already because of the walk,” said Trey Leon, an undeclared freshman.
Matthew Uy, a senior biology major said, “The temporary lots provide enough extra space, but it’s kind of inconvenient to have to walk so far.”
There is also the issue with the ground not being paved in these lots.
“If we get any rain at all the parking is a complete mud hole from all the student traffic, especially behind HSS. You have to watch where you walk or you could get really dirty,” Uy said.
With the Vision 2025 targeting a student population numbering 5,000 by 2025, these issues are being examined and solutions are in the planning.
“The Physical Master Plan shows a minimum of four multiple story parking structures, totaling 2,260 additional parking spaces, as well as open parking areas throughout the campus,” said David Okada, chief planning officer and acting institutional compliance officer for the University.
On the other hand, it could be some time before students see these changes implemented.
According to Randall Wiegand UOG is still probably at least two years away from building its first new parking structure.
“The University is exploring options to pay for the structure. One of the options is a parking fee separate from tuition,” Wiegand said.
For now, students should expect parking to remain as is, but know that the University is working on solutions.
“We are aware parking is a significant issue. We appreciate the cooperation and patience of students as we work through issues,” Wiegand said.
The executive summary of the Vision 2025 Physical Master Plan plan can be found at http://www.uog.edu/giving/vision-2025-21st-century-campus .