Campus increases 20-minute spaces




Campus Times
September 24, 1999

 

by Elizabeth Rodarte
Staff Writer

University of La Verne officials recently turned seven campus parking spaces into 20-minute parking zones in an effort to minimize the congestion of traffic at some of ULV's facilities.

A total of seven new 20-minute parking spaces-two in front of Woody Hall, two in front of Founder's Hall and three in front of Miller Hall-have been implemented around campus.

"The issue was raised that there is no place really for those people who stop by to drop off a piece of paper or pick up a piece of paper," said John Lentz, director of Campus Safety and Transportation.

Brian Worley, director of Facilities Management, said, "The locations were specifically chosen to make it convenient [for people] to take care of business."

Both Lentz and Worley said most people coming to ULV for a short time on a daily basis are prospective students and their families.

Lentz said, "If these students have to park six blocks away they may say, 'The heck with ULV, I will go somewhere else'."

Students were not informed about the changes because the process took place early this summer.

"It just seemed like it was better to do it [implement parking zones] early summer and have it available," said Lentz. "Otherwise, it would have been too difficult at the end of the academic year."

According to Lentz, the three 20-minute parking spaces in front of Miller Hall were requested by Lisa Meyer, director of undergraduate admissions.

"One of the things that came up is that there are people who come to campus who need to get information who are not necessarily students or employees," Meyer said. "Sometimes it's alumni, sometimes it is a Board of Trustees member."

Undergraduate admissions visitors, when confirming their visit, are advised over the telephone to obtain a special 90-minute parking permit which allows them to exceed the 20-minute limit, if needed.

Lentz said the new 20-minute parking zones will not be a problem.

"I have heard nothing but positive [comments] because of the convenience factor," he said. "The negative part can be that it takes seven parking spaces."

Mixed feelings about the 20-minute parking zones circulate the campus.

Senior Dana Hazen said, "It is a good idea in front of Woody Hall, but it limits spaces in front of Miller Hall, not helping the parking situation."

"It takes up parking space from the students. What can you really do in 20 minutes?" said junior Raul Mena. "It takes usually more than that as slow as everything runs at this school."

Senior Diana Verduzco said, "I definitely do not agree. As it is space is very limited here. By adding these 20-minute parking spaces the parking situation has worsened."

"I think it is a really good idea. It makes it convenient for those who are here for a short time," said sophomore Ryan Rodriguez.

Lentz said ULV security officers will be handing out citations to those who violate the 20-minute parking regulations. The fine for exceeding the 20-minute limit is $20, and all money goes directly to the city of La Verne's general fund.