VCU announces traffic and parking changes for high school graduation ceremonies this month

By Jake Burns and Olivia Truban

High school graduation ceremonies return to Virginia Commonwealth University’s campus, notably the Stuart C. Siegel Center, from Monday, May 18, to Friday, May 29. To manage the influx of visitors, VCU Police and VCU Parking and Transportation plan to implement a comprehensive traffic and safety plan, including changes to parking procedures for VCU subscribers.

Traffic impacts and travel safety

Ceremonies for Richmond and Chesterfield County public schools will bring thousands of graduates and their families to VCU’s downtown campus. (For the full schedule of graduations – most at the Siegel Center, plus some at the Altria Theater or Singleton Center for the Performing Arts – visit this information page.)

VCU Police will conduct traffic control operations before and after each ceremony both outside the venue and at parking decks. Drivers should expect delays.

There are typically two ceremonies during daytime hours. Doors open one hour before the start of each ceremony.

Drivers will not be permitted to drop off or pick up passengers in front of the Siegel Center.

Accommodations for guests with mobility issues will be located on the eastbound side of the 1200 block of West Broad Street (signage will be posted).

Visitors can review travel safety practices near VCU’s Monroe Park Campus at this information page.

“We are excited to welcome thousands of students, families and educators to our campus in the next few weeks,” VCU Police Chief Clarence T. Hunter Jr. said. “In order to ensure everyone celebrates their loved one’s milestone safely, we ask all visitors to review venue policies, your school district’s guidance and remain acutely aware of fellow travelers.”

Parking information for attendees

Parking for those attending ceremonies at the Siegel Center will be at the West Broad Street Deck (1111 W. Broad St.).

• Parking passes are required for each event.
• Those who do not have an event parking pass will need to find street parking or use public transportation.
• Limited day passes are available for purchase but are not guaranteed.

Detailed information regarding the traffic plan and accommodations for those with mobility needs is available on the VCU Parking and Transportation website.

Impact to VCU parking subscribers

VCU will temporarily relocate all West Broad Street Deck parking subscribers during the first week of the commencement period to reduce congestion and improve operational efficiency.

From Monday, May 18, to Friday, May 22, West Broad Street Deck subscribers must relocate to one of these four alternatives:

• West Main Street Deck.
• West Cary Street Deck.
• Jefferson Street Deck.
• Henry Street-East Deck.

From Tuesday, May 26, to Friday, May 29, West Broad Street Deck subscribers may relocate to the above locations if preferred, but they are not required to do so.

All subscribers are encouraged to relocate to help drivers avoid graduation traffic throughout this time period.

Continuous shuttle service will be provided from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily to and from the alternative decks and on-campus locations. Subscribers can track shuttle arrival times in real-time using the Ride Pingo app.

Reciprocal parking privileges at the West Broad Street Deck will also be suspended during the two-week commencement period.

“On behalf of the VCU Parking and Transportation team, I want to extend our sincere thanks to the VCU community for their cooperation during this year’s high school graduation ceremonies,” said Josh Stone, executive director of VCU Parking and Transportation. “Your support helps to provide a safe and seamless experience for high school graduates and their families.”

What to know about safety and security

Graduates and those attending commencement ceremonies should be aware of prohibited items during events. They include:

• Weapons and illegal substances.
• Food and beverage.
• Artificial noisemakers, laser pointers and other distracting devices.
• Large bags (medically necessary and diaper bags are allowed).
• Coolers and containers (including bottles, cups and tumblers).
• Pets/animals (with the exception of service dogs).
• Balloons, confetti, fireworks, balls, frisbees and sticks.
• Utility tools.
• Tripods, monopods, selfie sticks and professional cameras.
• Solicitations or handouts.
• Obscene or indecent clothing, signage and language.
• Wheelies, bicycles, skateboards, scooters and roller blades.
• Wrapped packages.
• Umbrellas.
• Flowers, bouquets and plants (event-dependent).

Anyone who attempts to bring prohibited items into the venue will be turned away.

Weapons are prohibited on VCU property, including parking decks. VCU’s Weapons - Regulation policy can be viewed at this page.