Starting this semester Colorado Mesa University has changed the way they execute parking permits. Instead of distributing paper permits, the process is all done digitally and electronically.

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This year, when a student or faculty member purchases a parking permit, there is no sticker to put in the window but rather, vehicle information is logged into a database and new equipment allows parking patrol to go through and scan license plates, determining whether or not the person has paid for a parking permit.

It is primarily beneficial for the school because it enables staff to monitor the use of parking lots more efficiently. Now the lots are able to be monitored by one person with a golf cart equipped with a computer and camera that looks at license plates and immediately registers whether the car has a permit or not.

A permit is required to park in any lot on campus and all lots are enforced from 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Permit price depends on the type of permit purchased.

Aside from permits, new motorcycle lots have also been added across campus. There are now 16 new motorcycle specific parking lots. Some of which are in select areas of the University Center structure and on the lower level of the parking garage near the Maverick Center.

Due to the amount of construction and growth of the campus, amount of parking lots and areas frequently change.

Director of Media Relations Dana Nunn said, “They change all the time. I could give you a number today and it would be different next week. How many spaces and how many lots changes and evolves and it goes up and down. But with that said we are always aware of the desire for more parking.”

The commuter lot east of the health sciences building has also been changed to a multi-use parking lot. Those who have a commuter permit or a residence hall permit can use the lot (lot M16). This change provides more parking for those residing at Orchard Avenue Hall while also providing spaces for commuters.

“We’ve done numerous parking studies over the years and they always come back the same. What they come back saying is there are always empty parking spaces but if it’s not near the building you’re going to, it doesn’t count […] I don’t think there is a university campus anywhere that does not struggle with parking,” Nunn said.

For more information on parking permits and a full map of parking lots and locations visit http://www.coloradomesa.edu/parking/index.html.