A group of UNC students managed to tackle a final project for a class, and Carrboro’s parking problem at the same time.

The group surveyed downtown business owners, almost all of whom said that parking is insufficient, but more law enforcement isn’t the answer. 

Bridget Veen is one of the coordinators of the study.

The group, who made repeated daily trips to public and private lots throughout February, found the most congested area was around West Weaver Street and the ArtsCenter. Their findings were discussed at the Carrboro Board of Aldermen meeting Tuesday night.

While business owners disagree, the group recommends more parking enforcement. In public lots, 20% of all vehicles throughout the day and week violate the two-hour time limit. 

Michael Schwartz also believes in more amenities for pedestrians, some of whom say they don’t feel safe walking at night. 

The group will turn in a final report in two weeks.