By Mike Harris, CAPP
As campuses grow, transportation needs evolve. The Campus Master Plan often outlines new roads, buildings, and infrastructure, with parking lots becoming prime construction sites for future development. This creates a domino effect, pushing parking to the periphery and necessitating changes in the campus transportation system.
When parking shifts to the edges, it impacts both your budget and transportation logistics. Perimeter lots, often cheaper to park in, will reduce revenue from prime spaces, while new routes must be added to connect these distant lots to the core campus.
So, how can transportation departments meet these challenges?
- Assess and Adjust Transportation Routes
To minimize additional costs, review and optimize current bus routes. Combining routes or reconfiguring schedules can open up buses to service new Park-N-Ride locations without drastically increasing expenses.
- Engage with Administration
Be transparent with campus administration about the impact of growth on your transportation budget. Loss of revenue from core parking and increased operational costs may require adjustments, such as a transit fee or funding for new buses.
Why This Is a Good Problem to Have
Though these challenges can strain resources, they’re ultimately a sign of success. Growth means more students, faculty, and facilities—and a better campus overall. The transportation department’s role is crucial to ensuring that this growth remains accessible.
Benefits of an Updated Transportation Plan
An adjusted transportation plan can:
- Facilitate Growth: Free up space for new buildings and infrastructure.
- Provide Economical Parking: Shift to more affordable, perimeter parking.
- Reduce Traffic: Alleviate congestion in core areas.
- Increase Efficiency: Offer quick and easy access to campus.
Is Your Department Ready for Growth?
Having a comprehensive transportation plan is vital. It ensures that your campus remains accessible and efficient as it expands. If your department isn’t ready, now is the time to get involved in the conversation. Make sure your transportation plan aligns with the Campus Master Plan, preparing you for the future.
Mike Harris, CAPP, is the Director of University Services with SP+ (SP Plus). Mike can be reached at gharris@spplus.com.