Editorial: Traffic and parking interference, not so welcome

FIUSM Staff

Thousands of students and faculty drive to the Modesto Maidique Campus each semester.

But for several years now, University police and parking officials have disrupted their commute during the first week of class by guiding traffic and displaying “Garage Full” signs at the entrance of lots, preventing traffic to flow.

On Monday, Aug. 25, there were no police guiding traffic, allowing streetlights to do their job without interruption. This proved to be the most efficient traffic control method of the week.

Every day after that was a living hell for commuters entering and leaving MMC.

Officers used their own judgment to grant drivers the right of way, disregarding green lights and causing traffic congestion along University roadways.

Police interference is supposed to minimize car accidents, but all it has done the past couple years is clog up traffic and aggravate drivers.

Parking officials also hinder the flow of traffic during the first week of the semester.

They stand at the entrance of garages so cars cannot enter, alongside a sign that directs drivers to park in Tamiami Park and offering a shuttle to and from campus.

If cars are flowing in and out of the garages, there must be an available space at all times.

But drivers are not even allowed to press their luck and are forced to park off campus.

Granted parking is a hassle at MMC, but based on previous years and just by last week, it is clear that University police and parking officials only make matters worse.

Seasoned FIU commuters would agree traffic is manageable without interference from these two departments.

As for commuters who are not well acquainted with the parking horrors on campus, they are sure to be annoyed by the officer telling them they cannot leave the University. Meanwhile, the light above the street is signaling, “Go.”

Perhaps these two departments can make better use of their services during one of the busiest weeks of the semester.

Instead of signaling traffic, University law enforcement can ensure no one is smoking on campus or stealing books from the library– anything other than guiding traffic.

Parking officials can make rounds in the lots and signal when a spot is open, rather than guarding the garages and not allowing cars to enter.

The attempt to ease traffic at MMC should be acknowledged, but it is time to for a new strategy.

Next semester, allow freshmen to follow traffic lights and spend hours searching for a parking spot. Let them be adults and live out a full college experience.

Maybe then, traffic will flow a little easier and parking woes will sort themselves out.

-eboard@fiusm.com