July 27, 2020, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Grand Rapids Community College is changing its parking fee structure to allow students to pay once a day, saving them money and making it easier to get to classes and services at the college’s two downtown campuses.
Students can use their RaiderCard to swipe into a lot and pay $3.50, then have unlimited access to parking lots on the Main Campus and DeVos Campus for the remainder of the day. Previously, students were charged $3.50 each time they exited a lot.
The move is intended to save students money at a time when many face financial challenges related to the coronavirus crisis.
It also recognizes that students often have classes, leave campus for home or work responsibilities, and then return. The move also makes it easier for students to access classes and support services on both downtown campuses.
“This is one more step GRCC is taking to reduce costs for students, making an education more affordable and accessible,” said Lisa Freiburger, GRCC vice president for Finance and Administration. “We don’t want parking costs to be a factor in a student’s decision to take a class or access programs.”
The college earlier waived online course fees for any distance learning classes during the 2020-2021 academic year, saving students about $50 for each three-credit class.
Many classrooms are located on the DeVos Campus, and the newly renovated Steven C. Ender Hall will be used for student-focused groups, including Experiential Learning and the Honors Program, Student Employment Services, and space for Student Life clubs and organizations.
With the change in parking fees, the college is suspending the Sneden shuttle service for the fall semester. The decision is based on student safety, with social distancing a challenge on the buses.
Grand Rapids Community College offers learners of all ages opportunities to gain credits for degrees or transfer and in-demand career skills leading to rewarding careers. GRCC was established in 1914 – Michigan’s first community college -- and offers affordable classes on weekdays, evenings, Saturdays and online at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties.