The fall semester started two weeks ago with the largest number of students ever enrolled at West Texas A&M University. The increased number of students has proven to be a challenge for those looking to park their vehicles on campus.

“We’re just trying to put everyone in the right parking spot,” WT Police Sergeant Zach Nethery said. “We really encourage students to take the shuttle service. There’s plenty of room and it keeps students from parking in places that might cause them trouble.”

The full shuttle service is available from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and one shuttle continues to operate from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. Shuttle pick up points are located at the northwest corner of the First United Bank Center, at the Agriculture & Natural Science building on 4th Ave., on the western side of the Jack B. Kelley Student Center at the Pedestrian Mall, and on Russell Long Blvd. at the Fine Arts Complex and the Virgil Henson Activities Center.

“Finding a parking spot the first day took almost 20 minutes, and it wasn’t a close spot at all,” Jordan Woody, a WT junior, said. Woody commutes to campus every day and said finding a parking space is one of his biggest stresses each morning. 

Jerry Faltinek, director of WT Parking Services, sent an email Sept. 4 informing students, staff and faculty members that any vehicle parked at Donut Stop, United Supermarket or Pizza Hut would be towed if the individual is not actively using that establishment. That change took effect on Monday, Sept. 7.

When searching for parking on campus, Sergeant Nethery said everyone should be aware of where they are parking. Drivers who park beside red curbs or tow signs could be ticketed or have their vehicle towed. Some students are hoping to avoid those issues by driving less.

“I try to drive as little as possible because I don’t want to give up my good parking spot,” Brittany Law, a WT freshman, said.