Starting July 1, the University of Iowa will change hourly parking rates for the first time since 2016 to simplify parking across campus. The standard hourly rate will be $1.75 an hour and will be implemented as a single rate across campus in place of the existing rate structure that varies by location, time of entry, and duration of stay.

“Over the past 30 years, parking on campus has become complex as we have provided a number of unique solutions to unique situations,” says Debby Zumbach, associate vice president and director of business services and parking and transportation. “These changes will simplify parking for users, while financially ensuring that we can continue providing well-maintained facilities.”

Other rate changes effective July 1 also include increases for some citations. These citation rate changes conclude the university’s first comprehensive update to citations since 2012.

Simplified hourly rates

By standardizing the hourly rate to $1.75 across campus, the university aims to create a consistent parking experience regardless of when and where users park. 

By eliminating the graduated rate, recent transaction data shows about 40% of users will pay less overall to park. For example, if you park for five hours, you will now pay $7.75 compared to paying $9.30 for the same duration. 

“We decided to revisit our strategy because the graduated rate is no longer achieving its original goal and it is an opportunity to reduce costs for users and simplify things,” says Zumbach.

Managing capacity concerns

“Over the past decade, while our parking rates have remained unchanged, the surrounding market has increased its rates which is contributing to capacity challenges and reduced availability for students, faculty, and staff,” says Zumbach.

The simplified rate and increase of 55 cents an hour will help bring rates more in line with the local market, easing demand and improving parking availability on campus. The new standardized hourly rate will remain among the lowest in the area.

In addition to ending the graduated rate, the student rate – available only at the Library Lot – will be discontinued. Due to the reduced rate, demand at this location has always exceeded supply, causing queueing issues. This change will create a more fair experience for students and will more evenly distribute parking throughout the campus.