Oct. 2, 2008

HOUSTON - As the University of Houston football game against Conference USA rival UAB on Oct. 9 draws closer, University officials released a parking advisory Thursday afternoon for fans planning to attend the game.

The Cougars meet UAB at 7 p.m., Oct. 9 on John O'Quinn Field at Robertson Stadium. Due to regular class schedules as well as the football game that night, traffic around Robertson Stadium is expected to be heavier than usual.

Working with officials from the Parking and Transportation Office, Athletics administrators created a parking plan for the game that will best minimize congestion in the area. However, fans should be aware of the unique parking situation for the game and are encouraged to leave for the stadium earlier than usual.

Despite the heavier traffic, UH director of athletics Dave Maggard said he was excited about the atmosphere surrounding Thursday's game.

"Your home team is coming off a great win over a Top 25 team, and I know our fans can't wait to see their Cougars at Robertson Stadium," Maggard said. "After working with University officials, we feel confident our parking plan will meet the needs of our fans, and we encourage everyone to arrive early and have a good time."

Fans are advised of changes to the regular parking plan.

PARKING - FANS
• Fans will not be allowed access to their respective parking lot until 3 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 9.

• No cash parking will be available in the Yellow Lot surrounding the stadium on game day. Cash parking for $5 will be available at the outer lots on campus.

PARKING - STUDENTS, FACULTY AND STAFF
• After 3 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 9, the lots surrounding Robertson Stadium may only be accessed by fans with valid UH Athletics parking passes and faculty and staff members with parking passes specifically for Lots 15D and 15F.

• Lot 13A (by UH entrance 13) is reserved for displaced faculty members. Anyone with a valid UH parking decal will be allowed to park there after 5 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 9.

• UH students, faculty and staff members who work or attend class Thursday evening are strongly encouraged to arrive early, park on the east side of campus and take the shuttle bus to class/work.

• Gated Lot 15D (northeast corner of Yellow Lot) will remain reserved for faculty/staff members with appropriate parking permits until 7 p.m., Oct. 9.

TAILGATING
• The use of parking passes will be STRICTLY enforced. As always, one parking pass will be required for every space used. In addition, fans will not be allowed access to their respective parking lot, and tailgating activities will not begin until 3 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 9.

• The Tailgating Village also will open at 3 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 9.