New construction: parking jam
When students of Fremont High School returned to school after President’s Day, they noticed one major change. Construction on the school parking lots had begun unexpectedly. News of construction had been released on Feb. 24. Even though the information had been released, many students were shocked at what was happening. The northeast parking lots, including the tennis courts, are being replaced by a new CTE building.
Many students were not happy with the sudden lack of parking spaces.
“I think it’s stupid,” junior Samantha Wilcox said. “People have to park on the street, which is a snow emergency. Very unsafe. Also, there’s nowhere to park at all.”
Due to the construction zones, many students have to park along 19th street. Like Wilcox, many students of Fremont Highschool share the same frustration. More students have shown up tardy due to the franticness of trying to find a parking spot. “It kinda makes me late sometimes,” junior Adarius Mitzelfelt said. “Because people like to take up two spots.”
Students are not the only one experiencing difficulties with parking.
“Although it does not affect me, it will start affecting the upstairs area a lot more than typical,” Eric Kimberly, math teacher, said about the parking crisis.
“I live in Omaha, so it probably will affect my schedule,” English teacher Aaron Pierce articulated.
As parking spots become more scarce, it becomes harder to get from class to class, especially the upstairs area. Unfortunately, with the construction of the parking lots and the tennis courts, the renovation of the upstairs math department will be put on hold until later.
“It’s not that big of a deal. Find another parking place,” junior Matthew Canales stated.
According to Canales, if people “get here early enough”, then they have nothing to worry about.
For the students and teachers at Fremont High School, driving to school and getting to classes will certainly be different. The CTE building is anticipated to be finished by the end of 2024 or the beginning of 2025.
“It does affect my morning routine, and although I don’t like it, I think people need to get used to it and adapt,” science teacher Bailie Hansen said. “Complaining won’t solve the problem.”