The University Parking Committee has been working on several proposals related to parking rates and regulations. As outlined in the March 6 issue of OnCampus, periodic reviews of rates and usage are necessary to ensure we keep pace with the cost of providing parking. Since the parking rates were last changed at Drake—in 2009—we have seen a steady increase in maintenance and repair costs as well as parking rates at other institutions like ours.

Two proposals relative to parking rates were forwarded by the Parking Committee for feedback. In meetings with various groups on campus (such as Faculty Senate, All Staff Council, and Student Senate) the committee heard two recurring themes: (1) the concept of a tiered parking structure for commuter lots had appeal, giving those who wish to purchase a parking permit various options from which to choose based on lot popularity and location; and (2) introducing a parking fee increase for employees in a year when no salary increases are planned caused concerns.

Based on this feedback, the decision has been made to adopt a tiered approach to commuter lot pricing, but to delay changes and the corresponding increases in parking rates until the 2018–2019 academic year. The fee structure for the 2018–2019 year will be finalized and published in the fall so that students, faculty, and staff have time to prepare for and make transportation decisions based on the new parking rates.

There will be some changes to parking regulations, including how visitor events are handled. Watch for details about those changes in upcoming editions of OnCampus and on the Parking Regulations web page.

A special word of thanks to the Parking Committee and Scott Law, executive director, public safety and operational services, for working through the various options and responding to the concerns and questions of the campus community.

—Venessa Macro, Chief Administration Officer