Over the past week, it is noticeable that people are only looking at the negative side of the parking situation. Yes, there may be a reduction in convenient parking, but does that mean you can’t take the bus or walk? A large number of blue parking spots have been changed to yellow to help accommodate the large numbers of commuting students. If you want to take out your frustrations on someone, don’t steal stop signs or park illegally. Go find those students who live close to campus but claim they still live at home. These people are the ones taking the precious commuter spaces. What about the increase in yellow spaces in the parking garage and across from the Music Building? Just because you have a parking permit does not mean that you can’t take the Huskie Bus (which is paid for by student fees); walk or ride a bicycle; or think creatively.

If you would like to see something changed, do not just complain about it. See what you can do. Talk to your Student Association representatives. Submit suggestions to Parking Services or find out if they have open meetings to discuss these issues. NIU is your university, and nothing gets changed simply by complaining.

Patrick VerHalen

Instructor, geography