Oxford, Mississippi, September 26, 2025
News Summary
The University of Mississippi has opened a new Residential Overflow South parking lot at the South Campus Recreation Center specifically for commuter parking permit holders. Due to high enrollment, the university introduced two types of permits: Commuter Red and Commuter Blue, with the latter already sold out. The initiative aims to alleviate parking challenges faced by students, especially at the Jackson Avenue Center lot. Additional transportation options, including a new campus shuttle service, are being enhanced to support the student community.
Oxford, Mississippi – The University of Mississippi Department of Parking and Transportation has recently opened a new parking lot aimed at easing the challenges of parking for students during a time of increased enrollment. The new Residential Overflow South parking lot is located at the South Campus Recreation Center and is designated specifically for commuter parking permit holders.
This announcement was made to UM students via email on Wednesday, Aug. 27, outlining the available parking options. The university now offers two types of commuter parking permits: Commuter Red and Commuter Blue. Commuter Red lots are placed farther from the center of campus compared to the more centrally located Commuter Blue lots. Both types of permits will have access to the newly established overflow lot.
The Commuter Blue permits, which are sold for $300, are already sold out. These permits were issued at a rate of 1.7 permits per parking space, indicating a high demand among students. Conversely, Commuter Red permits are available for $100 and are unlimited, although these lots have never filled to capacity, ensuring ongoing availability. Cassy Savage, the UM Parking Operations Manager, has encouraged students to become familiar with the less common Commuter Red lots.
A current challenge for many students is the frequent full occupancy of the Jackson Avenue Center (JAC) lot, adding complexity to their parking experience. Students are urged to use other parking areas, such as the South Lot and the South Campus Recreation Center, which also feature dedicated bus services.
In addition to the newly established parking lot, a more permanent parking solution is in planning stages, although no specifics have been disclosed. The Department of Parking and Transportation is working closely with the Associated Student Body (ASB) to improve the Oxford-University Transit (OUT) shuttle service as part of this parking expansion initiative.
A new supplemental campus shuttle service has also been introduced, which provides additional transportation options for students. Initial routes for the new shuttle service include on-demand trips from the Gertrude C. Ford Center to the Lyceum, Sorority Loop, and the South Oxford Campus. This is particularly beneficial for students who may not have parking permits, as OUT offers several bus routes that pick up near off-campus apartments.
Despite these improvements, there are still issues surrounding the OUT system, including reliability problems and limited operating hours, especially for students needing late-night transportation. For example, one student reported difficulties connecting with the Bronze route due to timing conflicts with her work schedule.
The UMMC’s Department of Parking and Transportation is actively addressing these parking and transportation concerns by engaging in discussions with student organizations. However, it is important to note that changes and new projects for parking and transportation services will take time to implement effectively.
FAQ
What new parking options have been opened at the University of Mississippi?
The University of Mississippi Department of Parking and Transportation has opened a new parking lot called the Residential Overflow South parking lot, located at the South Campus Recreation Center.
What types of commuter parking permits are available?
The university offers two types of commuter parking permits: Commuter Red and Commuter Blue.
How much do the commuter parking permits cost?
Commuter Blue permits are sold for $300 and are now sold out, while Commuter Red permits cost $100 and are unlimited.
What transportation options are available for students?
Students can utilize the Oxford-University Transit (OUT) shuttle service and a new supplemental campus shuttle service that includes on-demand trips.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New Parking Lot | Residential Overflow South parking lot at South Campus Recreation Center for commuter permits. |
| Parking Permits | Two types: Commuter Red ($100, unlimited) and Commuter Blue ($300, sold out). |
| Shuttle Services | Improvement of OUT and introduction of new campus shuttle service with specific routes. |
| Current Parking Challenges | Often full Jackson Avenue Center (JAC) lot, need for additional parking solutions. |
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Additional Resources
- The Daily Mississippian: UM Opens Overflow Lot
- WLBT: Nurse Attacked in UMMC Parking Lot
- WAPT: UMMC Employee Attacked
- Live 5 News: Nurse Brutally Attacked
- Ole Miss Sports: Adapting to Financial Changes
- Wikipedia: Oxford, Mississippi
- Google Search: UM Parking and Transportation
- Google Scholar: Parking in Universities
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Parking Solutions
- Google News: College Parking Issues
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The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
