Traffic, construction delays and lack of parking can be a hassle for commuters, but a number of resources and parking options are available for students through Fresno State.

“As more students return to in-person classes, it’s best to anticipate increased traffic congestion on campus, especially along Barstow Avenue,” said Fresno State parking and transportation manager Derek Brantley.

Brantley advised those who arrive after 11 a.m. to park in Lots P5, P6 and the Save Mart Center (SMC) facility parking lot where more spaces are available.

For those who carpool, they are eligible to receive a complimentary carpool parking permit in Lot P30, located south of the library, according to Brantley.

At least one student must have a valid student parking permit and can apply for a carpool parking permit online. This permit is available on a first come, first served basis, Brantley said.

All Fresno State students have free access to city of Fresno FAX buses and Clovis Transit services. Students can utilize these transit services by swiping their Bulldog IDs when boarding. 

For students commuting from the Visalia area, the university is partnered with the city of Visalia to provide complimentary V-Line transit services. Brantley said eligible students can obtain a V-Line pass in-person at the Fresno State Police Department parking lobby.

“Utilizing the aforementioned complimentary transportation options is another great way to mitigate traffic congestion and reduce parking demand,” Brantley said.

Some Fresno State students may recall that the university previously offered an on-campus shuttle service called the Bulldog Express. However, due to COVID-19 the service no longer operates. 

The Bulldog Express previously offered students free transport between Bulldog Lane and Millbrook Avenue, Millbrook and Barstow Avenues, Student Athlete Village, Campus Drive, SMC parking lot and Palazzo at Campus Pointe.

Amin Makkawy, a professor in the communication department, said the cancellation of the shuttle was disappointing. 

“I plan to continue to fight for that shuttle to bring it back, and I’d love to see that shuttle program expanding. One step at a time, I suppose,” he said. 

Makkawy, who is blind and previously made requests for signage in the Music Building to improve accessibility on campus, said the shuttle was useful in a very “utilitarian way” and also created a sense of community on campus.

“I think there’s some great symbolic value, too, saying that, ‘We really are linked to our surrounding community, and we want you to come to campus,’” he said.

At this time, Brantley said there are no immediate plans to bring the Bulldog Express back for the academic year. However, the university will consider options for the 2023-24 fiscal year.

For further parking and transport-related questions, students can contact Traffic Operations online or by phone at (559) 278-2950.