OSU introduces new parking options as campus construction begins

Tuesday, June 6, 2006

Oklahoma State University is taking several steps to address parking as it begins unprecedented construction that will transform its campus over the next five years and beyond.

With the exception of handicapped parking, lots 10, 10A and 11 located west of Boone Pickens Stadium are being closed as work begins to bowl the west end zone, which will create a 60,000-seat stadium offering a game day experience second to none, as well as house athletic offices and facilities.

To offset the loss of parking, lot 6 (located directly south of the stadium) will be open during summer break to faculty, staff and students who display a valid parking permit. In addition, any vehicle with a valid OSU Parking Permit may park in the overflow parking lots.  

“Lot 6 will be sufficient to hold commuter students and faculty and staff during the summer months," OSU Parking and Transit Director Hugh Kierig said. "When the fall semester begins, portions of lot 6 will be reassigned for faculty and staff use.”

Kierig said additional student commuter parking will be relocated to a temporary lot north of Hall of Fame Avenue, where the Patio Apartments are located.

As construction of the west end zone continues, the university will announce plans for rerouting the short stretch of Hester Street between Athletic Avenue and Hall of Fame.  

“This is an exciting time of growth for OSU, but with it comes growing pains,” Kierig said. “In response, we are introducing two parking options — a park-and-ride half-price parking permit and a new discounted carpool program — that we believe will appeal to many employees.”

Kierig said the price of regular parking permits for faculty and staff will remain the same for the next school year.

“Faculty and staff who participate in the park and ride program can purchase parking permits for half price, and those who participate in the carpooling initiative will receive a discount based on the number in their carpool,” he said.

Faculty and staff will receive additional information on parking for the 2006-07 school year soon. For the latest on parking, go to www.parking.okstate.edu