Administration reopens north lot for student parking

Sam ReamerStaff WriterForty Samo seniors were able to wave goodbye to the troubles of off-campus parking and return to Samo’s north lot this October. The north lot, which was closed to seniors during September, is now temporarily reopened to students on a month-to-month basis.The north lot was closed to students because of the impending construction of the new Science and Technology buildings. However, Dean of Students Catherine Baxter says the schedule for the construction of the new buildings has yet to be finalized, and therefore the administration is reopening the lot for student use.Senior Class President Spencer Goodman said the reopening of the north lot is a relief for seniors struggling to find alternate parking options. According to Goodman, the school plans to hold a lottery to give new seniors an opportunity for parking every month.“Finally, we have spots to park in,” Goodman said. “Although it’s only 40, it’s still something. We’re going to cycle through and have a lottery each month, so hopefully there will be forty  new kids getting parking each month.”For the month of October, no lottery was needed because originally only 35 students applied for parking, leaving excess spaces. Goodman was surprised by the lack of signups, but expects the number to increase for next month’s round.“I was definitely expecting more sign-ups, but now that kids are hearing only 35 people signed up initially, I think there is about to be a lot more interest,” Goodman said.One senior who was able to obtain a spot is Brian Alfano, who is happy to have parking for as long as he can.“I’ll have my spot until Nov. 4, but it might last longer if no more people sign up. I’m ecstatic about it.”Administration allowed  late applications, and all of the spaces for the first round have now been filled. When construction of the new football field is completed five more spaces will be available. Students who were not awarded parking are being put on a waiting list for when these spots become available.Goodman was also pleased with the fact that the administration chose to reopen the lot instead of keeping it closed until construction begins.“I’m really happy the school decided to act on all these empty spots because it was frustrating seeing them everyday — allowing us to park there is just really nice,” Goodman said. “At first I was upset, but I understand the administration does not know when each stage of construction is going to happen. I’m happy they recognized it so early.”sreamer@thesamohi.com