A new parking system at BYU-Idaho was implemented January 1, 2011 in an effort to better accommodate the growing student population and create a safer environment. Student input largely shaped the final policy.
BYU-Idaho students were asked how parking could be improved, and they suggested splitting the campus into zones. The zones encourage students to park and stay on campus rather than increase congestion by driving to each class. This will create a safer environment between classes when more vehicles and pedestrians are sharing the road.
Students also said they would be willing to pay more for permits to address this problem and felt the higher cost would encourage students who live close to campus to walk rather than drive. Additionally, by increasing this cost, students are able to share more of the responsibility of maintaining the lots, which is highly subsidized by the university.
