Texas A&M addresses Downtown Bryan parking concerns with employees

BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) – Last week KBTX reported on concerns from Downtown Bryan business owners about a lack of customer parking that’s impeding business.

Many contributed the issues to Texas A&M employee offices that recently moved into the Varisco building and a lack of street parking sign enforcement. When KBTX reached out to the City of Bryan, a spokesperson said the city is working on solutions and encouraged residents or interested parties to contact them.

Residents and business owners in Downtown Bryan told KBTX they have been sharing concerns for almost a year now with the city, and have begun reaching out to A&M leaders for help.

Thursday, an email to A&M employees at the Varisco building encouraged the group to park in designated areas not in front of businesses.

“Last November, the City of Bryan and Destination Bryan formally welcomed Texas A&M University to the Varisco building in historic downtown. Since first occupying the building in October, we have grown to more than 180 employees serving our university community, supporting Technology Services, Finance and Business Services, Human Resources and Organizational Effectiveness, and Marketing and Communications.

We also joined more than 88 businesses and retail locations, and an estimated 450 residents. As a university, we strive to be good neighbors and want to support the local business owners who rely on direct access to their respective storefronts.

There are currently two free-of-charge surface parking lots that offer 72 parking spots within walking distance of the Varisco building. Both are located along North Tabor Avenue between E. 24th Street and E. 22nd Street. There is also garage parking available at the Brazos Transit District’s Roy Kelly Inter-Modal Terminal and Parking Garage at an hourly or daily rate, also within walking distance.

By choosing to park in one of these areas, street parking spaces remain accessible to visitors who come and go throughout the day, specifically to support local businesses. Your consideration in choosing one of these alternative parking options is greatly appreciated.

We appreciate your flexibility as we navigate the nuances of off-campus locations together. Please know Texas A&M leadership is actively engaged in conversations with the City of Bryan and Destination Bryan about their expansion efforts and how to best accommodate feasible parking and transportation options for all.

Thank you for your continued work to serve faculty, staff and students, and I hope you have an opportunity to explore downtown Bryan and enjoy the cultural district that has quickly become a local attraction for many.”

The statement was sent to employees by Texas A&M University Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President, Greg Hartman.

KBTX has requested an interview with Bryan leaders. Businesses said their main ask, is for the city to enforce timed parking along the Downtown roadways. For some businesses in Downtown Bryan, any help coming is too late. Multiple businesses including Casa Rodriguez, whose property went up for sale Friday, have contributed to a detrimental drop in business.