Parking Downtown Costs and Distance

February 2008 issue

Could you address the fact that those employees and students that drive to the loop everyday have seen a tremendous increase in the parking fees in area lots and garages. Last year I was paying a monthly fee of $129.00, now it is $190.00. I have to walk four blocks away to get this rate and I'm sure it will go up again very soon. I don't know how the students can afford these rates either. Some lots and garages reduce the parking fee by $1.00 for DePaul students and staff but this is not enough. Is there anything DePaul can do to help out the students and staff that need to drive into the loop everyday? I understand that DePaul owns the lot next to the Law School but their rates are the highest around.

Response

Source: Bob Janis
Title: Vice President for Facility Operations
Unit/Department: Facility Operations

Response: There are several parking lots near to DePaul's Loop Campus that offer lower rates, or better discounts to DePaul students, faculty and staff. Two lots specifically, a high rise deck at the southwest corner of Adams and Wabash, and the indoor parking facility at 55 East Monroe Street, offer good discounts to the DePaul community....but a bit of action is required on behalf of those who seek the discount. They must go to the parking office at the respective facility, show their ID card, and fill out a form that eventually gives them access to a discount card that can be used each time that one of those two lots is accessed- and the card is good for use at both of these lots.

I myself have a card, and can tell you that when I park for a period of time that would normally cost me $18 that it is discounted to $14 for a 12+ hour period of use. I have also used these facilities on the weekend and instead of paying in excess of $20 as a fee I pay $9. All who show a valid ID and fill out a simple application will receive the discount card.

With the lot south of Lewis Center, while we own the property we do not own the parking operation...and cannot compel them to offer any more of a discount than they offer at present. The best thing to do is not park there, opting instead for the better discount at the above mentioned facilities.

I would also offer that the Auditorium garage, across from the Auditorium Theater on Congress, plus the combination surface lot and parking deck south of Congress on the east side of the street, offer better discounts than the lots directly to the south of Lewis.

Best bet though....go to Adams & Wabash or 55 East Monroe. Both easy walks to Loop Campus, and both facilities where your car will stay out of the rain and snow.