Student proposes motorcycle parking

A proposal has been presented by a Texas A&M University-Commerce student that would create parking spaces on campus strictly for motorcycles.

"If we had designated motorcycle parking, it would allow us to put three to four motorcycles to one spot, freeing up two or three parking spaces in each lot, " sophomore political science major Coby Marcum said. "The parking lots are already crowded, so it's important that we utilize the space efficiently."

This proposal could also reduce the number of motorcycle thefts. According to Marcum, motorcycle thefts are common because it is easy for someone to steal a motorcycle.

"It's just not difficult to toss one into the back of a truck and drive off," Marcum said.

Placing the motorcycle parking in regularly traveled areas and closer to buildings is intended to provide more safety for the motorcycle operators.

This solution is designed not only as a cost effective way to create more parking for students that do not ride motorcycles, but also to help encourage students by providing closer parking to building entrances to ride their motorcycles to school rather than drive their cars or truck.

"Motorcycle parking at Texas A&M University-Commerce would show our university to be a progressive organization of higher education that supports cleaner air and less dependence upon foreign oil through the support of motorcycles as economic forms of student transportation," Marcum said.

More motorcycles would mean less cars on campus according to Marcum, which would also benefit the environment.

"I think this is a good idea for the campus in an effort to promote the use of more fuel efficient vehicles that reduce the impact on our environment," junior art major Val Curry said.

Marcum's preparation for the forum included 102 student signatures in support of the proposal to add motorcycle parking spaces.

"Of the estimated 82 people who I asked personally, only two did not support the proposal," Marcum said. "The other 22 signatures were received from fellow motorcyclist on campus. The students surveyed were of different majors, classifications, genders and ethnic backgrounds representing a very diverse student body."

With Marcum's survey he was able to estimate the approval rate for this program to be between 95 and 98 percent.

"I've been hearing a lot of buzz on campus about motorcycle parking." counseling grad student Veldon Lockhart said. "I think it's a good idea and I think the proposal will get passed."