The start of the fall semester is one of the busiest times on the UNLV campus, with new and returning students finalizing course registrations, purchasing books and finding new classes. To ensure that students, faculty, staff and those with business on campus arrive safely and efficiently, UNLV is offering the following parking tips:

o Know before you go: Parking and shuttle route maps are available online at http://parking.unlv.edu.

o Arrive early: Plan to arrive well before class time, particularly during the first weeks of school when campus parking lots will be most crowded.

o Park smart: The greatest number of available parking spots will be found in the Thomas & Mack Center lots (access from Tropicana or Swenson) and the north parking garage (access from Cottage Grove or Claymont). The best bet during busy times will be to proceed directly to these areas.

o Catch a ride on our air conditioned shuttle: "The Ride" operates Monday - Thursday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

o Be patient: There are enough parking spaces to accommodate the needs of all on campus. Patience and cooperation are appreciated as the campus begins the new semester.

Fall semester classes begin August 28. Electronic message boards will be posted at major entry points to campus during the first week of school, and university staff will be present to assist with traffic flow, directions and pedestrian safety. For additional information, call Parking Services at 895-1300 or visit http://parking.unlv.edu .