Navigating parking at a large university like Florida State University (FSU) can sometimes be challenging. For faculty and staff seeking a premium parking option, Florida State Transportation Services (TAPS) offers the Virtual Reserved (VRES) parking permit. This enhanced permit provides exclusive benefits and convenience for eligible employees. This guide will detail everything you need to know about the VRES permit, making your transportation experience at FSU smoother and more efficient.
What is the VRES Parking Permit?
The VRES permit is a virtual parking solution designed for Florida State University faculty and staff. Being a “virtual” permit means there’s no physical tag to display; your vehicle’s license plate acts as your permit. This permit grants 24/7 access to a reserved parking space on Level 1 of the Spirit Way Garage. Beyond this dedicated spot, VRES permit holders also enjoy parking privileges in all Faculty/Staff parking areas, and Student parking spaces after 4:30 PM on weekdays and throughout weekends. Additionally, for quick stops, VRES permits allow parking in Loading Zones for up to 20 minutes.
Who Can Obtain a VRES Permit?
Currently employed Florida State University Faculty and Staff members are eligible to purchase the VRES permit. Specifically, this includes Full-Time Faculty and Staff classified as A&P or USPS. It’s important to note that OPS employees are not eligible for the VRES permit program or the payroll deduction option associated with it.
Understanding the Costs and Payroll Deduction
The VRES permit is available for purchase at a rate of $580 per year. To facilitate payment, Florida State University offers a convenient payroll deduction program for eligible faculty and staff (A&P or USPS). This program allows for pre-tax deductions directly from your paycheck.
The payroll deduction amounts vary depending on your employment term:
- 12-month Faculty/Staff: $24.17 deducted from two paychecks per month.
- 9-month Faculty/Staff: $34.12 deducted from two paychecks per month.
These deductions continue until the employee is no longer employed by the University or chooses not to renew the permit at the start of each permit year (August 15th). It’s crucial to remember that the VRES permit fee is non-refundable.
Key Features and Important Regulations
The VRES permit comes with several notable features and regulations:
- Vehicle Registration: You can register up to 5 vehicles (cars, trucks, motorcycles, etc.) under one VRES permit. However, only one registered vehicle is allowed to be parked on campus at any given time.
- Gate Access: One gate card is provided with each VRES virtual permit for accessing the Spirit Way Garage reserved area. Replacement gate cards are available for a $10 fee, payable in person at the Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) office.
- Remote Gate Clickers: For added convenience, remote gate clickers are available for purchase at $35 each. Payment can be made in person or via payroll deduction by completing a Remote Gate Opener Agreement. Replacement clickers cost $20. Both gate cards and clickers must be returned upon termination of FSU employment to avoid fines ($15 for gate cards, $30 for clickers).
- Rental/Loaner Vehicles: If using a temporary rental or loaner vehicle, you can easily add it to your VRES permit online and remove it once it’s no longer in use.
- Gameday Restrictions: VRES permit holders need to be aware of gameday parking restrictions. Specifically, parking in Booster lots is prohibited on home football game weekends. Refer to the Gameday Parking Map for detailed information on affected areas.
How to Apply for a VRES Permit
To obtain a VRES permit, eligible faculty and staff need to complete the Authorization for Payroll Deduction Form. Once the form is submitted, a TAPS representative will contact you to guide you through the subsequent steps to finalize your permit purchase and activation.
Conclusion
The VRES Reserved Parking Permit offers a premium and convenient parking solution for Florida State University faculty and staff. With its reserved parking space, expanded parking privileges, and payroll deduction option, it simplifies your daily commute and on-campus transportation. If you are an eligible FSU employee looking for the most convenient parking option, the VRES permit is worth considering to enhance your overall experience at Florida State University. For any further questions or to begin the application process, please contact Florida State Transportation and Parking Services.
