Students and Unions React to Carleton University’s Frustrating Parking Pass Restrictions

Sean Joe-Ezigbo stands out at Carleton University. As a fifth-year commerce student and president of the Carleton University Students’ Association (CUSA), he embodies student leadership. Recently, his role has put him at the forefront of student frustrations regarding new parking rules.

In a recent decision, the university announced it would limit parking permits for the 2025-2026 academic year. This move has left many students feeling sidelined. Joe-Ezigbo expressed his dismay, saying, “It feels terrible, honestly. It’s frustrating to see that there’s not much representation for us.”

The university cites a high demand for parking as the reason for these changes. Now, only students living outside OC Transpo’s service area can apply for a parking permit, as well as those with “extenuating circumstances.” This restriction affects students commuting from areas like Stittsville and Kanata.

Carleton’s media officer, Steven Reid, explained that the closure of Parking Lot 9 has compounded the parking issue, noting that the university can no longer meet the demand for permits. To mitigate traffic, he suggested that students use OC Transit’s Park-and-Ride locations.

However, this has not gone unnoticed. CUSA, alongside other student groups, is pushing back. A joint statement from CUSA, the Graduate Students’ Association, and others argues that the policy forces students to choose between accessible transportation and necessary mobility. They demand the immediate reversal of these restrictions.

Joe-Ezigbo mentioned that their petition against the parking limitations has gathered over 1,000 signatures. He stated this is just the start, hinting at potential collective actions if responses from the university remain unsatisfactory. “We need to bring the university to the table and have a real conversation about this issue,” he said.

Students have varied opinions on the new rules. For Morgan Pickard, a second-year student from Stittsville, the changes disrupt her routine. “Taking the bus could double my commute. I worry about my classes or exams,” she said.

On the other hand, fourth-year Stephon Farrow feels that parking is a privilege. He benefits from improved bus services. “It’s a limited resource that needs to be managed,” he said.

Polling data supports the sentiment of frustration among students. A recent survey showed that 73% of students feel unrepresented in university decisions affecting their daily lives. This statistic underscores the growing need for universities to involve students in such choices.

Joe-Ezigbo remains hopeful for a resolution. “This affects many students. It just isn’t fair,” he expressed. As students rally for change, their voices signal a larger call for colleges and universities to prioritize representation in decision-making processes.

For more information on transportation policies in Ontario, check out the OC Transpo website.

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Carleton University, parking permits, parking permit, Steven Reid, CUSA, Sean Joe-Ezigbo, students, OC Transpo