The West Garage at the University of Massachusetts Boston is a significant parking facility on the university's campus, located on the waterfront in Boston, Massachusetts. This garage plays a crucial role in providing parking options for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The West Garage is part of the university's efforts to manage parking demand and ensure that the campus remains accessible to all members of the university community.
Overview of the West Garage
The West Garage at UMass Boston is a multi-level parking structure designed to accommodate a substantial number of vehicles. With its strategic location, it serves as a primary parking option for those attending classes, working, or visiting the campus. The garage is equipped with modern parking management systems, including pay stations and gates, to facilitate easy entry and exit for parkers. Additionally, the garage is designed with safety features such as security cameras and emergency phones to ensure a secure parking environment.
Parking Rates and Options
Parking rates at the West Garage vary depending on the duration of stay and the type of parking permit or payment method used. The university offers various parking permits for students, faculty, and staff, which can be purchased on a semester or annual basis. Visitors can pay for parking on an hourly or daily basis using the pay stations located at the garage. The university also provides information on parking rates and options through its website and parking services office, helping parkers plan their visits and manage their parking expenses effectively.
| Parking Option | Rate |
|---|---|
| Student Semester Permit | Varies by semester, check university website for current rates |
| Faculty/Staff Annual Permit | Varies by year, check university website for current rates |
| Visitor Hourly Rate | $3-$5 per hour, depending on the time of day and day of the week |
| Visitor Daily Rate | $10-$15 per day, depending on the time of entry and day of the week |
Sustainability and Accessibility Features
The West Garage at UMass Boston incorporates several sustainability and accessibility features. The garage is designed to minimize its environmental footprint through the use of energy-efficient lighting and ventilation systems. Additionally, the university has implemented initiatives to encourage the use of alternative modes of transportation, such as carpooling, biking, and public transit, which can help reduce the demand for parking and decrease the campus’s carbon footprint.
Alternative Transportation Options
UMass Boston offers various alternative transportation options to reduce reliance on personal vehicles and promote a more sustainable campus environment. These options include the university’s shuttle bus service, which connects the campus to nearby public transportation hubs, and bike-share programs that encourage cycling as a mode of transportation. The university also participates in regional transportation initiatives, such as the MBTA’s Semester Pass program, which provides students with affordable access to public transit.
- Shuttle Bus Service: Connects the campus to nearby T stations and other transportation hubs
- Bike-Share Programs: Offers bikes for rent on a daily or semester basis
- MBTA Semester Pass: Provides students with discounted public transit passes
How do I purchase a parking permit for the West Garage?
+Parking permits for the West Garage can be purchased through the UMass Boston parking services office or online through the university's website. Students, faculty, and staff will need to log in with their university credentials to access the parking permit application portal.
Can I pay for parking at the West Garage with a credit card?
+Yes, the pay stations at the West Garage accept credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, in addition to cash. Visitors can use these pay stations to pay for their parking before exiting the garage.
The West Garage at UMass Boston serves as a critical parking facility for the university community, offering convenient and secure parking options. By understanding the parking rates, options, and features of the West Garage, individuals can better plan their visits to the campus and contribute to a more sustainable and accessible university environment.
