The University of Southern Maine community is currently grappling with the new “Pay by Plate” parking policies on the Gorham and Portland campuses in a way consistent with academic rigor and a commitment to free speech. With lively input from various constituents, Parking Services continues to consider the impact of the new parking system on faculty, staff, students, and visitors.

As a response, Justin Swift, chief business officer at USM, told the Gorham Times, “USM is committed to listening to and including the campus community in parking policies. This month a Parking Committee will be seated with membership representative of various areas of the campus.

This Committee will serve in an advisory role with a directive to identify parking related concerns, recommend policies, and present recommendations to the chief business officer and campus leadership for final review and approval. Additionally, the Committee will have a role in addressing the financial viability of the parking operation.”

More information about the Parking Committee, parking policies, and related information will be available at usm.maine.edu/parking-services. The web site will be updated as necessary.