Quinnipiac University students have a lot to say in regards to the recent changes to parking in the North Lot on the Mount Carmel campus. This has made an already competitive situation even more difficult.
At the beginning of this semester, the first three sections within the main North Parking Lot, which was previously designated for senior parking, were reassigned for staff-only use. The shift has forced many seniors to search for alternative spaces in other areas, including the Hilltop and Hogan lots, which students say are now filling up faster than usual.
“I used to park in North Lot every day for class without an issue,” senior Kyle Peters said. “Now I’m circling Hilltop for 10 or 15 minutes just hoping someone leaves. It’s stressful when you’re trying to make it to class on time, and you have no confidence you’ll be able to find a spot across so many different areas. I’m also a senior so it seems crazy to me.”
Students say the change has created a ripple effect across campus. With fewer senior-designated spaces available, drivers are spreading out to other lots earlier in the day, making parking especially difficult during the busy hours.
“By the time I get here, 30 minutes before class by the way, Hilltop is basically full,” seniorAliana Fichera said. “It feels like there just aren’t enough options anymore, especially during peak hours.”
For underclassmen, the congestion has been noticeable as well.
“It definitely feels more crowded,” sophomore Charlie Walls said. “Even Hogan fills up quicker now. You have to plan your arrival around parking, not just your class schedule. Even the York Hill parking garage is more full.”
While many students expressed frustration, some acknowledged that staff members also need accessible parking spaces.
“I get that professors and staff need spots too,” Peters said. “I just wish there was a better balance. Taking away senior parking completely from those sections feels like a big change, and one that we weren’t even expecting.”
Parking has been a topic of conversation on the Mount Carmel campus for a long time, particularly during busy class times. With the North Lot change now in effect, students say they are adapting by arriving earlier or allowing extra time before class. Some students have missed classes due to this as well.
Still, for many seniors, the change is disappointing.
“It’s our last year,” Fichera said. “You’d think senior parking wouldn’t be the thing that gets taken away.”
As students continue adjusting to the new layout, parking remains a daily point of discussion across campus.