Finding your way around a university campus, especially for parking, can be challenging. At NC State University, visitor parking is designed to be straightforward and accessible, ensuring your visit is smooth from arrival to departure. This guide focuses on providing you with all the necessary information for visitor parking, with a special emphasis on the convenient Partners Way Deck, a prime location for accessing the vibrant Centennial Campus.
Understanding NC State Visitor Parking Basics
NC State University welcomes visitors and provides designated parking areas across its campuses. It’s crucial to understand the parking regulations to avoid any inconveniences. Parking permits are enforced Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in faculty/staff, commuter, and visitor parking zones. Residential parking areas have slightly different enforcement hours, typically Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to midnight, and Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Always pay attention to signage as some areas may have extended enforcement times.
For visitors, the primary parking options are the designated visitor pay lots and decks. These are strategically located for easy access to various parts of the university. Cash is not accepted at these locations; payment is exclusively through debit or credit cards (MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and American Express) or the ParkMobile app.
Partners Way Deck: Your Gateway to Centennial Campus
When visiting NC State’s Centennial Campus, Partners Way Deck stands out as an exceptionally convenient parking option. Situated centrally within Centennial Campus, it provides easy walking access to key destinations like the Hunt Library, the Engineering buildings, and various research facilities. Using Partners Way Deck simplifies your visit, allowing you to focus on your purpose at NC State rather than parking hassles.
Partners Way Parking Deck Entrance
Non-Gated Visitor Pay Spaces: Flexibility and Convenience
NC State offers numerous non-gated visitor pay spaces across its campuses. These operate on a pay-by-plate system, so remember your license plate number when paying. Here’s a breakdown of the hourly and daily rates:
- Hourly Rates:
- $3 for the first hour (or any portion thereof)
- $2 for each additional hour (or any portion thereof)
- Option to extend time at $1 for 30 minutes (or any portion thereof)
- Daily Rate: $15
- ParkMobile Transaction Fee: A $0.35 fee applies per transaction when using the ParkMobile app.
These rates apply to all non-gated visitor pay spaces, including those at Partners Way Deck. Always confirm the specific rates posted at the parking location as they are subject to change.
Paying for Parking: Multiple Options for Your Ease
NC State provides several methods to pay for visitor parking, ensuring a hassle-free experience:
- ParkMobile App: The most recommended method is using the ParkMobile app. Download the app, create an account, and enter the zone number posted on the ParkMobile sign in your parking area. You can pay securely with your credit card and even opt-in for notifications before your parking session expires.
- ParkMobile Website: If you prefer not to use the app, you can pay via the ParkMobile website.
- Text to Pay: Text “PARK” to 77223 and follow the prompts to pay for parking via text message.
- Phone Call: Call 1-877-727-5301 to pay over the phone.
- Kiosks and QR Codes: Some locations may offer kiosks or QR codes for payment. Check for these options upon arrival.
Remember, Partners Way Deck and other visitor pay areas are zone-based, meaning you cannot reserve a specific parking space in advance. Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Exploring Visitor Parking Across Campuses
While Partners Way Deck is ideal for Centennial Campus, NC State offers visitor parking options on other campuses as well:
- North Campus: Several visitor pay lots are available, providing access to main campus buildings and attractions.
- Central Campus: Conveniently located visitor parking for accessing central campus facilities.
- Centennial Biomedical Campus/West Campus: Visitor parking options are available to serve the biomedical and west campus areas.
Detailed maps and locations for visitor parking on each campus are available on the NC State Transportation website.
Electric Vehicle Charging for Visitors
For visitors driving electric vehicles, NC State provides charging stations for a fee. These stations are available for hourly use, with the following rate structure:
- First 4 hours: $2.50/hour of connection time.
- After 4 hours: $10/hour, prorated by the minute.
You can find a map of EV charging station locations on the NC State Transportation website to plan your charging needs during your visit.
Essential Visitor Resources and Maps
To further assist you, NC State Transportation provides helpful maps and resources:
- Campus Map: An interactive campus map to help you navigate to your destination.
- Hourly Pay Area Map: A dedicated map highlighting all hourly pay parking locations, including Partners Way Deck and other visitor options.
- Accessible Parking Map: For visitors with accessibility needs, a map detailing accessible parking spaces.
Find My Way Campus Map
Hourly Pay Area Map
EV Charging Stations Map
Accessible Visitor Permits Information
Accessible Parking and Campus Tours
Visitors requiring accessible parking must still purchase visitor parking permits. A state-issued accessible/handicap placard is necessary to utilize designated accessible parking spaces.
For those planning to take a campus tour, visitor parking is available near the Campus Visits office at Talley Student Union on Main Campus, specifically at the Coliseum Parking Deck.
Campus Tour at Talley Student Union
Parking Enforcement: What to Know
It is essential to park in designated visitor areas and pay for parking. NC State actively enforces parking regulations. Tickets are issued to visitors parked in permit-only areas. Remember that visitor permits are not valid in pay lots or pay-by-plate locations, and special permits are required for loading/unloading and events. Always adhere to posted signage and parking guidelines to ensure a smooth visit.
Conclusion: Parking Made Easy at NC State
NC State University strives to make visitor parking as convenient as possible. By utilizing designated visitor pay areas like Partners Way Deck and employing user-friendly payment options like ParkMobile, your parking experience can be stress-free. Remember to check the NC State Transportation website for the most up-to-date information, maps, and any parking updates before your visit. Enjoy your time at NC State!
