Create free parking for ARC at UIUC

Recent signers:
Savannah Vahl and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Ever since my freshman year in 2023, my morning routine has included going to ARC in the morning to get my workout in. Because of the distance, I would drive, and park in the lot right besides the building. More recently, parking has been heavily enforced, so you have to now pay $2.18 per day for an hour and a half of parking. Students already pay mandatory campus fees that support facilities like the ARC and campus transportation services. Charging additional daily parking fees creates a double financial burden, particularly for students who rely on vehicles due to distance, early schedules, work commitments, or off-campus housing. I don't believe that students should have to pay for parking at the gym. I propose that parking be free with a 3 hour time limit, with a penalty of tickets or a tow for repeated offenses. My goal is not to eliminate parking enforcement, but to create a balanced policy that supports student wellness while maintaining accountability. Providing limited free parking for ARC users would align with the university’s mission to promote health, accessibility, and student success.

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Recent signers:
Savannah Vahl and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Ever since my freshman year in 2023, my morning routine has included going to ARC in the morning to get my workout in. Because of the distance, I would drive, and park in the lot right besides the building. More recently, parking has been heavily enforced, so you have to now pay $2.18 per day for an hour and a half of parking. Students already pay mandatory campus fees that support facilities like the ARC and campus transportation services. Charging additional daily parking fees creates a double financial burden, particularly for students who rely on vehicles due to distance, early schedules, work commitments, or off-campus housing. I don't believe that students should have to pay for parking at the gym. I propose that parking be free with a 3 hour time limit, with a penalty of tickets or a tow for repeated offenses. My goal is not to eliminate parking enforcement, but to create a balanced policy that supports student wellness while maintaining accountability. Providing limited free parking for ARC users would align with the university’s mission to promote health, accessibility, and student success.

The Decision Makers

Urbana-Champaign Parking Department
Urbana-Champaign Parking Department
Urbana-Champaign
Urbana-Champaign

Supporter Voices

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Petition created on February 11, 2026