By Amanda Powell

An updated parking policy puts the same regulations on mopeds as motorcycles, and that means no more parking at bike racks.

The UK Parking and Transportation Services updated the parking policy for all mopeds, motorized scooters and motorcycles on Aug. 1.  All users now have the same rights and responsibilities, including same parking spaces and permits.

Riders were required to purchase an $8-per-month M permit, which allows riders to park their vehicles in assigned motorcycle parking spaces.  Those spots are marked with either signs or green lines.

Although this clears up overcrowded sidewalks and packed bike racks, the new policy could lead to more problems.

Moped driver Chris Scorsone is worried his vehicle is more likely to be stolen.

“There is no place to chain up in the motorcycle parking lots,” Scorsone, an undeclared junior, said.  “Mopeds are like bikes, any one can just roll it away from the parking lot.”

Scorsone said mopeds are very light and are not insurable, so if any mopeds are stolen, it is not likely they will be found and returned.  Scorsone said his attempts to make his concerns heard have gone unsuccessful.

“I have gone to the transportation office and they sent me all over,” Scorsone said.  “Then I tried to contact Student Government, but I am still waiting for a response.”

Brad Feather, chemical engineering senior, has yet to apply for a moped permit.

“I haven’t been cited yet and I’ve been parking with the bikes for two years,” Feather said.

Feather said he has parked next to the bike racks because “motorcycle parking is usually packed.”

UK spokeswoman Gail Hairston said some moped drivers were acting as if their vehicles were bicycles.

“We had complaints from students because of near collisions with mopeds,” Hairston said.  “Students were riding on the sidewalks and the grass with their motorized vehicles and putting pedestrians in dangerous situations.”

The new rule was not intended to limit moped or motorcycle access on campus, but to prevent hazardous situations from occurring, Hairston said.