Construction for the new parking garage on The Square is finally set to begin June 2018 with plans to be completed by June 2019. The parking garage will be built on the parking lot that currently sits behind Bouré, and it will provide 401 new parking spaces with an additional 90 surface parking spaces around the garage.
However, while the construction is going on, 234 free parking spaces will no longer be available on The Square. That’s an entire football season, baseball season, Double Decker weekend and most of the orientation sessions without those parking spots.
The parking commission has been working with local businesses, the city and the county to open up temporary free parking spaces surrounding The Square while the garage is being built. Before going to The Square during construction, check out these potential temporary parking lots:
Oxford Park Commission parking lot:
This lot is located at 310 S 15th St, which is walking distance to The Square. Their lot is already available for parking and has 88 open spaces, so once the construction begins be sure to keep this lot in mind for parking.
Jackson Ave E, West of Jail:
This lot is also located right off The Square, and it has been approved by the Board of Supervisors to allow visitors to use this lot once construction for the parking garage begins. This will provide 31 temporary spaces.
Oxford Church of Christ:
Located at 400 N Lamar Blvd, Oxford Church of Christ has verbally agreed to allow visitors use their lot during the week as long as no other function is planned. This will provide 40 temporary spaces.
Old Gin and Hoka property/Department of Human Resources:
Both of these places are in the works now to be approved for additional parking during construction. If they are approved, this will open up an additional 93 spaces.
Additionally, because of the lack of parking on the square, it may be in your best interest to avoid driving if possible. Oxford has some really great taxi services, Uber and a bus system that are great alternatives to driving. My favorite form of transportation in Oxford is Flying Tuk. It’s an eco-friendly alternative to driving, and one Tuk can hold up to six people. The best part is that it is only $5 per person for a ride!
Are you guys excited about the new garage that will eventually bring more parking, or do you think Oxford is growing too fast and should slow down? Leave a comment below and let me know!
*This information was obtained from the public Downtown Parking Advisory Commission Meeting on March 2, 2018.