The North Atlanta parking deck is every underclassmen’s dream location. Speeding through the levels, blasting music, and soaking in the thrill, the parking deck has become a place filled with unforgettable memories. For the past few years, the admin has loosened their expectations involving the parking deck, giving the dubs loads of driving freedom. The administration’s laid-back enforcement of parking deck rules allowed students to come and go with little concern for strict regulations. However, this has changed this past week, after the school staff announced sweeping changes to parking policies.
On Monday, the administration held a required assembly for all juniors to attend. The main concerns brought up during this assembly were the new changes coming to the parking deck. These changes include enforced speed limits, assigned parking spots, and a zero-tolerance policy for any reckless driving or loitering. While many students were surprised by the sudden shift in policy, others felt it was only a matter of time before the administration cracked down. “It’s definitely a little annoying, but it’s not that big of a deal,” said Junior Brayden Manier. “As long as everyone follows the rules, it shouldn’t be too much of a problem.”
A major shake-up to parking deck life comes in the form of mandatory parking passes and the threat of booting for rule-breakers. Starting next week, any car without a properly displayed pass risks being booted. The administration says this is all about fairness—making sure every spot goes to someone who actually paid for it—but students are less convinced. The once carefree chaos of the parking deck is being replaced with rules and regulations, leaving students wondering if the freedom they once enjoyed is gone for good. “It’s really gonna stink not parking by my friends everyday,” said Junior Asher Maclane. “It kills a lot of the fun of driving to school.”
Students are frustrated with the new rules, especially the restrictions on parking near friends. For many, being able to park close to one another was a small but important part of the high school experience. With these changes, some students feel like they are losing a sense of connection that made their daily routines more enjoyable. “It’s like they’re turning the parking deck into a DMV—no fun allowed,” said Sophomore Shep Sloan.
North Atlanta students may be a little upset about the new parking deck rules, but will undoubtedly find creative ways to ensure that the parking deck remains fun and nostalgic.
