To improve access in and around the Iowa State campus during heavy snowfalls, a Winter Storm Parking Plan has been developed. This plan will be put into effect when heavy or late falling snow prevents Facilities Planning and Management (FP&M) staff from clearing all major streets, sidewalks and parking areas by 7:30 a.m.
FP&M is staffed and equipped to adequately clear streets, sidewalks and parking areas for early morning use under normal winter conditions. Generally, the department can clear walkways, lots and streets if the snowing has stopped by 3:00 a.m. or if accumulation is less than 4 inches.
But if weather conditions are more severe and FP&M is unable to keep up with the snowfall, the Winter Storm Parking Plan will become effective. The plan was created approximately 7 years ago to help direct drivers during difficult snow events. Under this plan, drivers arriving at campus early should plan on parking in one of three designated parking areas. These designated parking areas will receive special priority, along with campus streets and sidewalks.
All valid ISU parking permits will be honored in the designated parking areas while the Winter Storm Parking Plan is in effect. The designated lots are located in the following areas:
Southwest Corner of the Iowa State Center (Lots A3, A4, B5 and B6) North of Molecular Biology (Lots 29 and 30) North of the General Services Building (Lot 41)
Every effort will be made to have these lots cleaned and available for parking by 7:30 a.m. Those parking at the Iowa State Center can ride the CyRide shuttles to campus. The buses (the Orange Route) will run at 5 to 10 minute intervals from the Center and are available at no charge.
When the Winter Storm Parking Plan is in effect, drivers are asked not to park in their usual parking lots, unless they have been cleared. During poor weather, faculty, staff and students are also encouraged to use the CyRide bus system which will add additional buses to its normal routes. If you are unfamiliar with the bus routes, information can be obtained by calling CyRide at 292-1100. CyRide information is staffed from 6:00 a.m. to midnight.
