For the first time since 1997, the university is revamping its parking permit structure, and for the first time in four years it is changing parking rates. Both sets of changes begin to be phased in July 1, 2011.

These changes are designed to simplify the tier structure and permit types; provide greater flexibility in getting around campus; and correct inequities in fees. Transportation Services continues to provide incentives for sustainable commuting practices such as carpools and the use of public transit.

"Most permit holders will experience no change in their parking privileges or parking locations," said Joseph M. Lalley III, senior director for facilities operations. "However, we are eliminating certain permit types. Permits from F and H will be merged with N; L merged with J; Y with U; and K permit areas will convert to either O or C permit parking."

Instead of seven tiers, there will be four, based roughly on their proximity to central campus: an outer tier, perimeter tier, mid-campus tier and central-campus tier. People with permits within each tier can park in spaces designated for their permits and in all spaces in tiers lower than their own. The rate for C permits will decrease from the current rate by $1.34 semi-monthly; all others will increase between 54 cents and $1.71 semi-monthly.

"We based the parking rates on such factors as availability of spaces, demand and access to public transit," Lalley said.

The outer tier (formerly Tier 1) includes permit types A and E and remains no-fee. The perimeter tier (formerly Tier 2) is made up of permit types CF, ME, O, R, T, W, WE. The permit rate will be $346.90 annually, or $14.45 semi-monthly. Permits will be valid in their respective permit areas and in outer tier lots.

Beginning July 1, 2012, the East Hill Office building and the East Hill Plaza complex, CISER and the Africana Center will become paid-permit areas at the same permit fee level as other perimeter areas.

The mid-campus tier (formerly Tiers 3, 4, 5) will include permit types C, CP, HH, G and Z. The rate for C, CP and HH permits will be $554.32 annually, or $23.10 semi-monthly; G will have a rate of $725.76 annually, or $30.24 semi-monthly; and Z a rate of $518.19 annually, or $21.59 semi-monthly. C, CP, HH and G permits are valid in their respective permit areas, perimeter areas and outer tier lots. Z is a business-use permit and has additional privileges.

The central-campus tier (formerly Tier 6) will include permit types D, J, N, P and U, with a rate of $777.30 annually, or $32.39 semi-monthly. These are limited in availability and issued through an approval process. Central-campus tier permits are also valid in mid-campus, perimeter and outer tier areas, as well as several other areas.

The process for accessible parking has also changed. Beginning Sept. 1, 2011, the Cornell HP commuter permit will be replaced by a commuter permit and a fee corresponding to that permit. A state or municipal handicap placard or license plate will also be required if the employee wishes to use an accessible parking space in that lot.

Motorcyclists who have a current M (motorcycle) sticker will not be charged an annual permit fee. Their current sticker will continue to be valid as long as they own the motorcycle that this sticker is on, provided they re-register their motorcycle and permit number with Transportation Services by Jan. 2, 2012.

Beginning July 1, 2011, motorcyclists who have a commuter parking permit for their car have the option of listing their bike as an additional vehicle on the permit. They will be able to park either the car or the motorcycle in spaces covered by that permit. A separate M permit just for the motorcycle is not required. Those who currently do not have an M permit and want to park only in motorcycle spaces will need to purchase an annual M permit at a fee of $115.63.

For a map showing the new permit designations, see http://transportation.cornell.edu//tms/cms/parking/campusparking/upload/fac-staff-map05092011.pdf and for expanded information about the changes, see http://transportation.cornell.edu/tms/cms/parking/campusparking/2011-2012-Parking-Plan-and-Rates.cfm.