Opinion: Tempe ‘Diamond in the Rough’ for Walkability

In an opinion piece in The State Press, Shane Brennan urges the Arizona State University (ASU) community to stop asking for more parking near campus, calling instead for better public transit options for students and staff.

According to Brennan, despite some loud complaints on social media, “Parking demand is low, and the University can use its money for other student accommodations. Also, by not having a car, students eliminate gas, insurance costs and repair costs.”

Further, “Tempe has gone to extraordinary lengths to increase the walkability and accessibility of its infrastructure. If you think driving around Tempe is difficult, it is by design.” Brennan urges fellow students who live near the city’s train line to use it to get to campus. “It's a safe, active way to get around, and makes you a larger part of the community. It's also much cheaper than having to spend money on gas.”