FREQUENTLY ASKED PARKING QUESTIONS

As we all work together to stay safe and practice social distancing, we have reached an important milestone that we should all embrace. Today is the 50^th Anniversary of Earth Day. In the last 50 years, we have learned many amazing ways to save our planet.

Earth Day will be a lot different this year. Parking Services thought now might be the perfect time to look at a couple ways we can work together to improve the condition of our planet.

One of the things we hear now is that we need to limit our trips to the store. This is good in managing the pandemic. It is also good for the environment. When you plan, you can help the environment by limiting trips which will help to reduce our carbon footprint.

The number of electric cars on the road has exploded over the last ten years. Electric vehicles are environmentally friendly. Parking Services has worked to meet the needs of electric vehicle drivers. We have recently installed 17 new electric chargers around the campus. We currently have 19 charging stations. (Visit parking.umbc.edu for locations.)

Now is the time to see how we can help our planet. Visit parking.umbc.edu for easy ways to reduce our carbon footprint. We are all in this together.

As the University takes measures to prevent the spread of COVID 19 (Coronavirus), we have received many questions regarding parking and how the University’s operating plans effect parking enforcement. We wanted to take this opportunity to avoid any confusion.

With the campus officially closed to all non-essential personnel, we simply ask that you park in any legal space on campus. Zones will not be enforced during this time. 

However, UMBC police will be enforcing such things as handicapped and 10 minute parking, as well as no parking zones and other standard Maryland State Parking Regulations. This will be done to ensure the safety of all on campus and to guarantee access for any emergency vehicles in the event they are needed on campus. 

When campus reopens to all staff, parking zones will then be enforced. We will publish updates, as needed. Please note, although our physical office is closed, we will be checking e-mails and phone messages.

Questions? Contact us at parking@umbc.edu.

As the University takes measures to prevent the spread of COVID 19 (Coronavirus), we have received many questions regarding parking and how the University’s operating plans effect parking enforcement. We wanted to take this opportunity to avoid any confusion among Faculty, Staff and Students.

Prior to Spring Break, parking regulations will be enforced as usual. You must park in your assigned zone and visitors will be required to pay in the Pay-to-Park lots. Additionally, service providers will be required to obtain service permits from Parking Services.

Due to the special circumstances, students may be removing more of their personal belongings from dorms and apartments than during a normal Spring Break. We will do our best to accommodate their needs to park close to their residences but please note, the safety of students and motorists is paramount.

During the first three days of Spring Break (March 16-18), we will follow standard procedures during a University Holiday. You will not need to pay-to-park and you may park in any legal parking space on campus. Please note, standard traffic regulations will be enforced during this time by the UMBC Police.

When campus reopens on March 19, we will return to normal parking operating procedures. Parking zones will be enforced. Additionally, you will have to pay in all Pay-to-Park lots and service permits will be enforced.

We are aware that an event such as this is unprecedented and we will re-evaluate the parking plan if the University makes any further adjustments to its operating schedule.  

The UMBC Carpool Lot is THE place to park on Campus. Located conveniently inside the loop, Lot 4 is a short walk from all of the academic buildings on campus.

When commuting after dark, safety must be the number one priority for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Commuting in the dark can be stressful, but don't fret! The tips below will help ensure a safe commute when driving this winter.

1.      Plan ahead - Utilize technology to find the most direct, secure, and well-lit route.

2.      Stay focused - It is harder to see at night, especially in inclement weather, so avoid distractions and keep your eyes peeled for other vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians.

3.      Check headlights - Headlights, even in brand-new cars are sometimes uneven or pointed lower than necessary; therefore, it is worth the effort to consult with a professional who can aim them correctly.

Biking or walking to work is a great way to stay active and healthy during the cold, winter months. Of course, with winter comes longer hours of darkness, which begs the question: is it safe to bike or walk at night? The answer is “yes!” These tips will help you stay safe and confident during your active commute.

1.      Always use front and rear bicycle lights.  Lights help you to see and be seen. 

2.      Double check your tire pressure.  Having tires inflated at or slightly below the recommended pounds per square inch (PSI) will increase traction during wet or icy conditions. 

3.      Be sure to adjust your bike helmet fitting if wearing a hat or other insulation underneath. 

4.      Use crosswalks when crossing the street; however, maintain caution and look both ways before crossing as it is harder to see and be seen in the dark.

Happy Commuting!

Crossover Parking to be available Friday,  December 20 through Friday, January 24

Students:  In addition to your assigned permit zone, student permits are valid in zones ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’.

Zone D & E Faculty/Staff:  In addition to your assigned permit zone, permits are valid in zones ‘A’ and ‘C’.

*Parking permits are required in all zones during the winter session*