A boost in the blue lot

All too often, students complain about IU's parking problem with a disregard for nature's Law of Conservation -- you can't make something out of nothing. It's no secret parking on campus is extremely limited. But more room just isn't going to spontaneously appear. \nThis is why the latest parking project is the right kind of effort for improving the situation. The plan, which was approved by the board of trustees Thursday, includes paving of the gravel "blue" lot by Assembly Hall this summer. This will allow the lot to accommodate a good 300 more vehicles than the 975 it holds now. \n The endeavor is expected to cost more than $1.6 million, which will come from the money parking operations makes off tickets and permits. Students shouldn't expect to feel this blow, as the division already earns $5 million in revenue each year (IDS, Sept. 8). \n We feel the money is being appropriately funneled to this project because it offers alleviation where it is needed most. Increasing parking by the stadium will add spaces without worsening traffic in the heart of campus, and will be especially beneficial during athletic events. And, rather than calling for a brand new garage at the expense of land or buildings, it develops an area already designated for parking. \nIn order to make improvements like these worthwhile, students have to be attuned to progress, as well. Parking your car and riding the bus is a good option, and the blue lot project will be conducive to this. Many people have the fixed idea driving to campus is the only good way to get there, but changing this attitude would soothe some of the many pains traffic brings. \nParking Operations bears most of the brunt when it comes to parking complaints, but there is only so much it can do. Expensive permits and tickets are a pain, but they protect the supply from the demand. Enforcement is tough, but little else would be fair. If the system were too lenient, spots would be taken so fast they would be gone by the time most people arrive in the morning. \nUntil the core of campus begins to miraculously stretch, IU has to make the most of the parking space it has. Projects like the blue lot's, combined with cooperative attitudes from students and staff, will help us better manage the parking predicament.