Cornell prepares contingency plans for commuters

With the recent rejection of the negotiated tentative agreement between Tompkins County Area Transit (TCAT) and the union representing its drivers and mechanics, Cornell University has announced alternative parking arrangements for Cornell TCAT patrons who are concerned about possibly being left stranded in the event of a midday work stoppage.

Cornell's Commuter and Parking Services plan is as follows:

1.) Alternate parking lots: Beginning Sept. 23, the following three parking lots will be available: a portion of Libe Slope, the grass area north of A Lot (A1) and T Lot on Route 366 across from Humphreys Service Building. Those lots will be staffed from 6 to 10 a.m. by Cornell transportation employees, who will provide complimentary permits. After 10 a.m. stop at an information and parking booth to receive a permit.

  • Cornell commuters should be prepared to show faculty/staff identification or an OmniRide pass.
  • These permits will be valid until a TCAT-United Auto Workers contract is signed.
  • Cornell OmniRiders will not have to use their one-day, scratch-off permits if they park in these alternate designated lots.
  • For safety's sake, the Libe Slope and A1 lots will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., cars must be moved to other spaces by 7 p.m.

2.) Carpooling alternative: Transit riders who do not have a car available are encouraged to find a carpool. Cornell Commuter and Parking Services is encouraging carpooling to campus, and a Web site is posted for ride matching. People who have space in their cars are encouraged to list themselves on the site. That Web site is: http://commuterconnection.cornell.edu/cornell_carpools/index.jsp.

3.) Handicap access: Riders with handicap accessibility needs should contact Commuter and Parking Services to find campus transportation solutions.

4.) Out-of-county commuters: The university anticipates that the out-of-county providers -- Chemung/Schuyler County Public Transit, Tioga County Public Transit and Cortland Public Transit -- will continue to operate their regular routes. Tioga Transport is expected to continue to operate its rural route service to Danby, Lansing and Newark Valley.

5.) In the event of a TCAT work stoppage, Cornell will issue further transportation instructions. Information is available at the following Audix phone numbers and Web sites:
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