UNM needs better parking for motorcycles, scooters

Editor,

I recently purchased a scooter. The last one I had was a 49cc, and I could park it at any bike rack at UNM as long as I left room for the bicyclists.

The new scooter I have is a 125cc Genuine Buddy. According to Parking and Transportation Services, I had to purchase a motorcycle permit and park my vehicle in motorcycle parking.

I think UNM needs to wake up and realize a lot more students are going to be riding scooters, not because it's a fashion trend, but because of current gas prices. UNM should offer students more scooter and motorcycle parking on campus than is currently available. UNM needs to look at universities in Italy, France, Japan and China to see how their parking is set up for scooters and motorcycles and use that as a model to create better parking facilities for those methods of transportation.

I think there are several areas on campus that would be perfect for scooter and motorcycle parking, such as Dane Smith Hall, the Bookstore, Zimmerman Library, Popejoy Hall and every dormitory, if possible. Parking and Transportation Services should monitor where scooters and motorcyclists are parked and see if they can offer parking for two-wheelers in the areas

monitored.

How do other motorcyclists and scooter riders feel about UNM parking? I think it's about time to speak up and ask for better

parking.

Rebecca Granato

UNM student