Parking FAQ

Mobility Options

Section Contents

Understanding Move VU

  • What is MoveVU?

    MoveVU is Vanderbilt’s strategic transportation and mobility plan, an integral component of the broader FutureVU comprehensive campus planning initiative. Aligned with the guiding principles of FutureVU, MoveVU is dedicated to enhancing the campus environment, preserving its park-like character, fostering sustainability, and improving connectivity across the campus.

  • What is the purpose of MoveVU?

    At its core, MoveVU is committed to diversifying transportation options, reducing the drive-alone rate to campus to support the university's carbon neutrality goals, prioritizing pedestrian and micromobility initiatives, and enhancing accessibility.

  • How do commuters benefit from MoveVU?

    Our programs are designed to provide Vanderbilt commuters with choices beyond traditional driving and annual parking permits, offering greater flexibility to accommodate their dynamic lifestyles. By offering a range of transportation alternatives, MoveVU empowers commuters to make informed decisions about how they travel to and from campus each day.

  • What are the benefits of taking sustainable commute modes?

    Opting for sustainable commute modes offers a range of advantages, including:

    • Contributing to Vanderbilt's sustainability goals by reducing the frequency of driving to campus, thereby lowering carbon emissions from transportation and enhancing air quality
    • Enhancing health and wellness by engaging in more active commutes, such as walking or biking, which can positively impact physical fitness and mental well-being
    • Enjoying greater flexibility with transportation options beyond solely driving alone, empowering individuals to choose their preferred mode of travel to campus on a daily basis

VandyRide

  • What is VandyRide?

    VandyRide, previously known as VandyVans, is Vanderbilt University's nighttime student shuttle service managed by Vanderbilt University Public Safety.

  • What are the shuttle routes?

    Please visit the VandyRide page for more information about the routes and stops.

  • Where are the shuttle stops located?

    Shuttle routes and stops can be found here.

  • Are there any amenities at the shuttle stops?

    All VandyRide shuttle stops are clearly marked with signage. The university plans to install shuttle shelter stops at select locations to enhance the user experience, resembling the design of the shelter in place between Hank Ingram House and Murray House.

  • I heard that there is an app I can download that shows the shuttle routes and real-time arrival information. What is the app and where can I download it?

    To access VandyRide information, students should download the VandySafe app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

  • What are the hours of operation for the shuttle service?

    VandyRide operates a limited service from 5:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. 7 days a week when classes are in session.

  • Can I use VandyRide as a member of faculty or staff?

    While primarily designed for student use, VandyRide is available to all members of the campus community seeking safe nighttime transportation across campus.

  • Why was the name changed from VandyVans to VandyRide?

    Originally called VandyVans when vans were the primary mode of transportation, the name change to VandyRide better reflects the current use of shuttles for the service, providing a more accurate description.

Understanding Ridehail Pick-Up and Drop-Off Areas

  • What is ridehail?

    Ridehailing services utilize online-enabled platforms to connect passengers with local drivers who use their personal vehicles. Examples of ridehailing services include Uber and Lyft.

  • I heard that the university created designated ridehail pick-up and drop-off areas on campus. Where are they located?

    There are now eight designated ridehail pick-up and drop-off areas on campus. The locations include E. Bronson Ingram Circle, Sarratt Student Center/Rand Hall, Kensington Place outside of the Kensington Garage, the Engineering and Science Building, lot 24 near the Lewis House, Blakemore House, Crawford House, and Hank Ingram House. These locations are marked with signage and can be selected within the Uber and Lyft mobile apps.

  • Why did the university create designated ridehail pick-up and drop-off areas on campus?

    The university established dedicated ridehail pick-up and drop-off locations on campus in response to student requests to enhance safety measures during the ridehail process. Vanderbilt University Public Safety (VUPD) conducted research on best practices from peer institutions and participated in educational webinars, such as the #WhatsMyName campaign, to improve ridehail safety and awareness.

  • How were the ridehail pick-up and drop-off locations chosen?

    The pilot locations were selected across campus based on existing ridehail activity and situated in well-lit areas that can be easily monitored by cameras and Vanderbilt University Public Safety patrols. These locations were designated as safe areas for students and others to utilize ridehail services.

  • How do I find a pick-up and drop-off location in the ridehail apps?

    The location pins have been added as a dropdown menu in both the Uber and Lyft apps. Additionally, users can input an address or pin location directly within each app.

  • Will more areas on campus be designated for ridehail in the future?

    The initial phase of pick-up and drop-off locations will be monitored, and adjustments or new locations will be considered based on data and feedback from the community.

  • Does Vanderbilt provide any tips or guidelines on how to stay safe while using ridehail services?

    Vanderbilt University Public Safety recommends that riders adhere to safety guidelines when using ridehail services.

  • Where can I learn more about Ridehail?

    You can learn more about ridehail safety and other useful information here.

The Vanderbilt Walk and Roll Loop

  • What is the Walk and Roll Loop?

    The Walk and Roll Loop, proposed as part of the FutureVU planning process following a recommendation from the Vanderbilt Student Government in 2017, is envisioned as a wide and comfortable loop encircling campus. Its purpose is to promote active transportation and recreation while better connecting the Vanderbilt campus with the surrounding city.

  • Why is Vanderbilt creating the Walk and Roll Loop?

    Vanderbilt is developing the Walk and Roll Loop to enhance mobility experiences for both the university and the surrounding community. It aims to establish the campus perimeter as a prominent gateway and promote a multimodal culture, encouraging walking, biking, rolling, and experiencing the campus at a human scale.

  • I have heard about the FutureVU greenway. Is the Walk and Roll Loop a part of the greenway?

    Originally conceived as part of the FutureVU land use process, the Greenway network includes primary and secondary paths along with the Walk and Roll Loop. While the greenway was initially planned as a north/south, east/west network, it has expanded to encompass various paths, forming a comprehensive mobility system.

  • How long will it take to complete construction of the Walk and Roll Loop?

    The initial phase of the Walk and Roll Loop, beginning in front of E. Bronson Ingram College and Warren & Moore Colleges and ending near the 21st Avenue and Terrace Place crosswalk, is expected to be completed this spring. This phase involves widening sidewalks, planting additional trees, and installing seating, lighting, and signage. The overall construction of the loop will be a multi-year project, with a planning study underway to determine the timeline for future installments.

  • Where can I learn more?

    For further information about the Walk and Roll Loop and the Greenway network outlined in FutureVU, including updates on design, construction progress, and upcoming milestones, visit The Greenway Network page.