As the fall semester kicks off on Aug. 26, getting to campus efficiently is key to a smooth start. Here are some tips from Parking & Transportation Services to make your commute to campus as seamless as possible.
1. Order or Renew Your Parking Permit
Students, faculty, and staff must have a parking permit to park on campus. Permits can be purchased online through the 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Parking Portal. Make sure your vehicle information is accurate, as your license plate serves as your parking permit. If you prefer to back into a parking space and don’t have a front license plate, display a parking sticker or hang tag. Parking decals can be purchased at Parking & Transportation Services' office
2. Check Campus Maps and Be Aware of Closures
Visit the Campus Maps website for interactive maps of buildings and parking lots, as well as information on dining, computer labs, hydration stations, libraries, museums/galleries, athletic locations, and restrooms. Stay up-to-date on road closures that may impact parking alerts on the Parking & Transportation Services website.
3. Plan Ahead with 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Park & Go
51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Park & Go displays real-time occupancy percentages for the Cottage Grove, University Gateway, and Tropicana Parking garages. This will help you find available (covered!) parking before you arrive on campus.
4. Park Where There is Ample Parking
Lot M and the Thomas & Mack Center Gray Lot usually have plenty of open spaces. Additional options include the University Gateway Parking Garage or the Cottage Grove Parking Garage.
5. Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at campus at least 45 minutes early, especially during the first few weeks of the semester. This gives you time to find parking and enjoy your stroll to class, grab coffee, or visit the library.
6. Look for PayByPhone Locations
Don’t have a parking permit? PayByPhone is an easy, secure way to pay for hourly or daily parking. Register your vehicle through the app or website and pay for the amount of time you need.
7. Power up with Extra EV Chargers
There are now 48 electric vehicle (EV) charging spaces across campus, with 32 on the Maryland Campus and 16 on the Shadow Lane Campus. To use them, you’ll need a valid 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ parking permit and ChargePoint account. After activating your membership, you can enjoy up to four hours of charging.
8. Explore Alternate Ways to Get to Campus
Save time and avoid parking hassles with transportation alternatives. The RTC offers carpooling through Club Ride and discounted transit passes through the U-pass program for students, faculty, and staff. For rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, there are designated pick-up and drop-off locations around campus.
For more information, visit the 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ parking website or call 702-895-1300.
