New Parking Rules For Oklahoma Sooners' Game Days

Big local story over the weekend was the announcement that parking for University of Oklahoma football games would be different this season. So, Sooners' fans take note:

No longer will both-sides-of-the-street parking be allowed, particularly on streets near the stadium. Why? Makes it too tough for emergency vehicles to get through. Now, if we were all driving hybrids instead of Hummers, this wouldn't be a problem. But don't dare suggest an Okie give up his truck.

Kidding.

It reminds me though of when I was back in college, on my fifth or sixth Hudepohl Gold by the second quarter, leading a vehicular charge through masses of people at Lindsey and Jenkins, hoping to take a few out in the process. The goal was to get to Thunderbird Liquor in time for second-half kickoff without dying or tearing any more stuffing from the roof of my 1983 Chevrolet Celebrity, the piece of crap that was.

Back then I was able to navigate the streets near what used to be Parkview Apartments just fine. Then again, Gary Gibbs was coach, and we weren't that good. So, perhaps demand has a bit to do with the supply seen along George Street.

There will be a parking lot where those apartments used to be, and that will hold about 700 cars. Officials estimate that between 800 and 1,200 cars in all will have to find somewhere else to park for game days. So, before you freak out, I have a couple tips for you.

Instead of paying $20 to park so danged close to the stadium, why not get some exercise and enjoy a walk? Norman is one of the most walkable cities in the country, and if you map a walk that includes several stops and some shade, you'll have a primo spot, get your workout in and have a great time in the process.

Why not park along West Lindsey somewhere? I don't know. Pick a spot. I once parked at the Homeland at West Lindsey and McGee and walked the whole thing, and nobody knew the difference. And, the length of the walk is deceiving; it's not as far as you think.

First, you stop at the Donut Shop for a coffee and a fritter. The sidewalks along Lindsey, past Berry Road, are chock-full of shade, particularly in the area of the former university president's home. Believe it or not, a ton of OU fans take this route, and there are parking spots to spare along West Lindsey.

But, be warned. You'll want to be creative and discreet or else risk towing.

Toss out that coffee and donut and JJ's Pizza near campus, and pick up a slice and a beer for about $3. You'll be full and buzzing in no time. But, the two mile or so walk will have killed off a ton of calories.

Another good walking route is from Main Street. The trick to this route is to realize your path to the stadium is diagonal. Cut across the police station, over the train tracks, past McFarlin Memorial Methodist Church, and you'll be at Owen Field before you can say, "DeMarco Murray touchdown!"

Those are two routes I've walked before, and I'm a lazy bastard. But perhaps you have a better one? Post it to our comments below.

Side note: You can also park for free at the Lloyd Noble Center and ride the trolley up to campus. If you've got older folks, kids, lazy people or hungover buddies in your group, that might be your best bet.

More info:

NewsOK.com

NormanTranscript.com