2,200 more register for classes at Kirkwood than last year

Students heading to class at Kirkwood Community College may be getting a little more exercise than they signed up for. The parking lots are overflowing.

The first day of class saw at least 2,200 more people registered than the first day last year. Many of them are adults who have been laid off or students looking for the first two years of a four-year degree.

Even with the addition of 250 more parking spaces on the main campus this year, students find themselves scrambling to find spots and even parking on the grass.

“Our top priority right now is getting people to where they need to be at the time they need to be there. We'll help direct traffic until things calm down,” said Executive Director of Facilities Tom Kaldenberg. He's asking students who live close by to consider walking to class, or carpooling if necessary, to relieve some of the congestion.

Kaldenberg adds that students will need to plan ahead and give themselves extra time to get to class.

Kirkwood's main campus isn't the only busy spot at the college. Officials say registration figures also indicate higher enrollments at 11 other Kirkwood county and community based centers. With digital connections to those locations, students may pick up college credits closer to home than the main campus on the south side of Cedar Rapids.

Source: Kirkwood Community College