The Visual Arts Center (VAC) is a great place to go if you’re in need of the computer lab or even looking to take more artistic classes; however, its parking situation is an absolute disaster.
The VAC lies in the middle of a neighborhood just a few blocks away from campus. Due to the fact that it is a residential area, parking is not allowed by students. There is a small lot where the instructors may park, though it is off limits for students as well.
Despite the insistence of “no parking” and the threat of tickets, many commuters will still throw caution to the wind and park on the street. The situation is frustrating on both ends of the situation.
A situation arose during the winter of 2021 where-in an elderly man in the area was unable to find parking on his own street. With groceries in hand, he had to make a far trek to his home in the cold weather.
This situation caused posters to go up all across the VAC telling the story of this man, and reiterating the “no parking” rule. These posters were also put up in the various shuttles that go across the campus. However, this effort seems to be in vain.
Students are continuing to park on the street rather than taking the shuttle. The disastrous situation leaves both sides of the coin in agitation.
Now, how does one go about finding a good solution for this issue?
As a student who continuously went to the VAC for both morning and night courses, I believe one possible solution is by upgrading the shuttles.
There is one shuttle that is large enough for students to fit comfortably on; however, the rest are in much rougher condition.
As the VAC is full of art students carrying different project types along with their backpacks and other supplies – the smaller shuttles simply do not work well.
They are cramped and make for an uncomfortable squeeze. If all the shuttles were to be as large as the more advanced model – more students would be able to fit with their belongings in tow.
We are still in the midst of a worldwide pandemic, and thus many of us are fearful to be in such a confined space. This can lead to more students wishing to park on campus as opposed to shuttling over.
There is also the convenience factor, especially with commuter students. Having to drive to school, to take the shuttle to the VAC, to go back to the main campus, to then drive home – it’s a lot of middle steps.
With the location of the VAC being in such an awkward spot, there is no truly full-proof plan to make both sides happy. Students will continue to test their luck parking, and residents will continue to call for tickets.
The suggestion for shuttles may allow for more students to feel safe using the service; however, there is no one solution to this issue. The battle is long wrought and yet neither side will be faring any better in the times to come.