Making space for progress: How UNM Is supporting campus growth and parking

As cranes rise across UNM's Central Campus, so does our vision for the future. The continued advancement of projects like the Center for Collaborative Arts & Technology (CCAT) facility, the UNM Police Department Headquarters, and other Parking Lot Improvement Projects signals transformative growth, but also temporary disruption, especially for those who rely on campus parking.

In response, the teams at UNM Parking & Transportation Services (PATS), UNM Facilities Design & Construction (FDC), UNM Campus Capital & Space Planning (CCSP), and Real Estate Department (RED) have worked diligently to maximize existing parking inventory and bring new parking resources online, while maintaining accessibility for faculty, staff, students, and visitors.

Keeping Our Campus Community Informed and Supported
While the nature of development requires ongoing adjustments, PATS remains focused on maintaining a functional parking system that adapts in real-time.

PATS has implemented a comprehensive outreach plan, including direct updates to permit holders, regular announcements, and real-time changes reflected in the Interactive Campus Map - ensuring the campus community stays informed every step of the way.

Addressing Parking Impacts: Collaborative Solutions in Motion
The Center for Collaborative Arts & Technology (CCAT) project resulted in a reduction of 253 "A" zone and paid parking spaces. In response, PATS partnered with FDC to implement strategic parking enhancements across campus:

• Campus Boulevard "R" Zone: Converted parallel parking to reverse back-in spaces, adding 70 new parking spaces for campus residents. (Completed October 2024)
• SW Corner of Central & Girard ("R/E" to "A/E"): Redesignated the "R/E" zone to "A/E" to support displaced "A" permit holders. (Completed October 2024)
• East Residence Hall "R" Zone Reconfiguration: Added 50 new spaces. (Completed November 2024)
• Expanded ParkMobile Paid Parking: Added 52 spaces in the "A/E" lot and 27 near Johnson Field/Tennis Courts. (Completed February 2025).

Similarly, the UNM Police Department Headquarters project led to the loss of 155 "GR" zone parking spaces. PATS proactively provided alternative options to affected permit holders:

• New Permit Options: Current "GR" faculty/staff permit holders were provided the option to exchange their parking permit for either the "T" or "J" zones.
• Implemented Dual and Multi-Use Zones to include "GR" Permit Holders:
  • "F" lot northwest side of The University - 105 shared spaces
  • "J" lot near University & Lomas Blvd - 63 shared spaces
  • "R/E" lot north of Yale Parking Structure - 76 shared spaces

Prioritizing Safety, Access, and Sustainability
PATS' has a commitment to enhancing the overall campus experience. Here are a few examples:

• Sustainability - Parking improvements aren't just about space-they're about experience. Compressed Natural Gas buses, EV charging stations, and our solar-powered pay stations support PATS' broader sustainability goals.
• Safety - New fencing around "R" zones along Girard Boulevard increases safety for our campus residents.
• Accessibility - For those commuting from farther away, the UNM shuttle system and partnerships with ABQRide, ART, and Sun Van continue to provide seamless access to the Albuquerque Campus.

Looking Ahead: Continued Engagement and Transparency

PATS remains committed to transparency and community collaboration. The upcoming Spring 2025 PATS Town Hall on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 1 p.m. will provide an open forum to discuss ongoing developments, future parking transitions, and gather feedback from the campus community.

While construction inevitably brings challenges, PATS is dedicated to delivering thoughtful solutions, keeping the community informed, and ensuring the access to campus remains as seamless as possible.

For more information or assistance, contact PATS at parktran@unm.edu or (505) 277-1938.