New parking ordinance will reduce on-campus traffic

When classes begin next fall, you're likely to notice three changes: more pedestrians, more green bikes and less traffic.

Currently most resident students are required to leave their cars parked from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. Beginning in September, this restriction will be expanded to all resident students. The new ordinance will affect the 500-600 students living in the Phase II and Phase III apartments of North Village, most of whom drive to classes each day.

"Students will still be able to use any time limit parking spaces," says Bob Miller, Director of Public Safety. "This will reduce traffic coming from the north end of campus by about 85 percent."

Also beginning next fall, only commuting students, ARAMARK employees and university guests will be allowed to park on the "dining hall" road. These changes were adopted upon the recommendation of a special focus group appointed by Dr. Shi to improve safety and reduce the environmental impact on campus.

The group, comprised of seven students and seven faculty/staff members, was formed in the spring of 2001. "During peak times, the university traffic circle and the road from North Village can be a safety hazard," says Vice President for Student Services, Harry Shucker, who chaired the committee. "You have motorists, cyclists and pedestrians all coming together at the same place. These new traffic rules will enhance safety. By promoting bicycling and walking, they are environmentally friendly, too."

Shucker anticipates some student resistance next fall until students get accustomed to biking and walking.

"This represents a change in student culture and mindset," he says. "But you can walk across campus in 15 minutes and biking takes even less time than driving because you have to factor in time for parking."

To encourage bicycling, the university is adding more green bikes to the existing fleet of 51 bikes. The bikes, owned by Furman and AFS, can be used by staff, faculty and students for on-campus transportation.

The Facilities Services Department has installed 11 additional bike racks. During the summer, the game room in the University Center will be renovated to house a small bicycle repair shop. Bicycle equipment will also be sold at the shop.

Public Safety is looking at establishing new bike paths that will enhance direct routes to the campus. Public Safety will be charged with enforcing these new rules. This focus group will continue their assignment by looking at other opportunities to improve traffic safety, encourage bicycle use, and develop environment-friendly programs.