Despite parking decks on campus, students report challenges finding adequate and convenient parking. (Photo courtesy of UAB Digital Asset Library)
For many students at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, parking is more than a daily hassle — it’s a major source of frustration. Despite the high cost of campus parking passes, students often struggle to find spaces in their assigned lots or decks.
“You buy an overpriced parking pass for a parking deck that probably doesn’t even exist,” said Shelby Hardy, a UAB student.
Many students say they routinely circle parking decks without finding an open space. However, Brian Atkinson, executive director of Transportation at UAB, said there are enough spots for all permit holders — though not always in the most convenient locations.
“Providing convenient parking in an urban environment with limited space is challenging,” Atkinson said. “While the most desired spots fill up quickly, zones like Express Lot 1 (Zone C) have never reached full capacity.”
UAB’s parking enforcement policies have also drawn criticism from students, who say tickets are issued with little flexibility.
“I’ve actually walked out to find a ticket on my car after playing in a volleyball game,” said Madison Page, a UAB volleyball player. “I don’t have a choice but to be there, and somehow I am charged for it.”
Atkinson defended the policy, arguing that enforcement ensures fairness for those who park legally.
“Illegal parking hurts those who park legally,” he said. “Without permits and the enforcement of citations, finding available parking would be an even greater challenge.”
Some students have proposed a warning system before issuing tickets, but Atkinson said that could encourage more violations.
Even when students manage to find a space, some are left with long walks across campus. Atkinson encourages students to consider alternative transportation, such as the Blazer Express shuttle service, which he said is underutilized.
He also suggested that students weigh the costs of rent and transportation when choosing housing.
“Higher rent for housing close to campus, where you can walk or bike, might be less expensive than lower rent with higher transportation costs,” he said.
As UAB continues to grow, students and administrators alike recognize the need for ongoing conversations about campus accessibility, enforcement, and improvements to transportation services.