HALIFAX, NS — Dalhousie University is breaking boundaries for post-secondary institutions and adding to the list of firsts accomplished by Dal. This time, Dalhousie has made headlines for its unique approach to solving campus parking issues. As many students know and live with, finding reliable and available parking is a challenge on campus. But, with changing seasons, and tides, a new solution has revealed itself. Flooded streets now do not have to be wasted space, and instead can be used for watercraft docks and slips. With rising sea levels and incredible amounts of rain, ColdSite is now including waterways as available areas.
“We want to adapt as quickly and as efficiently as possible, while both maximizing the profit from these services and minimizing the number of students that can actually use these services.” ColdSite and Dalhousie’s Facilities Management have been working extensively together to prepare the new sites, including the dock, with BYOM (Bring Your Own Mooring) incentives.
On the first day of slip-parking, The Mackerel found two students using their paddles to joust for the last remaining kayak parking space. Without a spot to dock, the losing student was lost at sea.
Some students commented that the parking shortage has just gone from land to water. “She doesn’t even go here!” exclaimed Alexandra Kelpe, a student who had their designated dock space stolen by the Harbour Hopper. “The worst part is, this happened with my spot in the parking lot too. I can’t escape these amphibious vehicles,” Kelpe continued.
Facilities Management was not available to comment, however, ColdSite wanted to share their promising message, and clarify major points of concern that have been brought up in a recent Q-and-A period, “ … we [ColdSite] want to reassure the student body that this new addition to our program will encourage alternative transport methods, and we are here to help. We have heard your concerns, and are going to save you time.” Interviewers are still unsure if the time saved is related to the post-climate change phenomena, or parking.
Regardless, Dalhouse is breaking barriers once again, and it’s a good thing tigers can swim.
By Katelyn Spurr