Service Updates
This page is updated with changes for Shuttle Services, Evanston Parking, and Chicago Parking announcements.
Shuttle Service Updates
Chicago Express Pilot
The Chicago Express Pilot route will once again be in operation for the 2024-25 academic year. The route will begin operations on Sat, Oct. 26. The route connects the Evanston campus with downtown Chicago destinations such as the Magnificent Mile, Chicago Northwestern campus, and Millennium and Grant Parks.
New Shuttle Loop Service Started Sep 17
The Loop Shuttle is a newly created route for the 2024-25 academic year. It replaces the Evanston Loop and Campus Loop with one new route that flows in both directions to make it easier to get from place to place – with more frequent stops. Working with its vendor WeDriveU, Northwestern analyzed recent ridership data to develop a network of offerings that includes shuttle enhancements and improved Safe Ride experience for students.
Please understand that this new route is subject to change and may have small adjustments throughout the year. These could be changes to the schedule or routing depending on actual operating conditions.
Evanston Parking Announcements
2024-25 Parking Permits
2024-25 parking permits are available for purchase.
- Student and contractor permits are available for purchase at the Evanston Parking Services Office.
- Evanston Faculty and staff can purchase parking online utilizing the online parking portal.
- As outlined in the Evanston Campus Parking Policies, temporary permits are non-refundable. Please note temporary permits can be purchased on a daily or monthly basis.
Vehicle Storage
Parking of vehicles for over 48 consecutive hours is prohibited. This includes all holiday and academic break periods.
Contractor parking
Construction contractors for all capital projects are prohibited from parking in all main campus lots. This includes North Garage (# 105), South Garage (# 211) and South Beach two level structure (# 214, 215).
Lot Closures
- North Garage: Part of the ramp to Level 7 and parts of Level 7 are closed off due to a Facilities project. Please use caution when driving and parking in the area.
Major Events
- None at this time
Chicago Parking Announcements
EV Chargers Installed in Chicago Parking Garages
Working with sustainNU, Transportation & Parking, is excited to announce that new EV chargers have been installed in the Huron Superior and Erie Ontario parking garages. Each garage has two dual-port station allowing a total of four vehicles to charge at the same time in each garage. The two charging stations in the Huron Superior A Parking Garage (221 E Superior) are conveniently situated just past the north entrance ramp gates off of Superior Street along the east wall. The Erie Ontario Parking Garage (321 E Erie) hosts another two charging stations, located just past the Erie Street entrance in section C.
Please review the Electric Vehicle Charging policy, which mirrors the policy for chargers on the Evanston campus: three hours of free charging followed by a fee of $3.25 per hour.
Daily Discounted Parking Program
Starting in 2023, the Daily Discounted Parking Coupon Program has transited to the Daily Debit Recharge Discount Program for most Chicago campus faculty, staff, and students. The Parking Office will no longer provide daily coupons to any faculty, staff, or student who is eligible for the Daily Debit Recharge program. Coupons are still available for temporary, part-time, new, and Evanston-based employees. Please review the information on the Daily Validation page for additional details about the program.
2024-25 Parking Permits
Parking on the Chicago campus is at capacity and most lots are now operating on a waitlist procedure. Faculty and staff with current parking may renew using the online parking portal.
Monthly Contractor Parking
To renew your monthly contractor parking please go to the Erie Ontario Garage Customer Service Office located on Ontario Street near the first floor vehicle exit, just east of the southeast elevator lobby. Fill out the monthly renewal form at the office and make your payment there. You can renew your parking access Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. In an effort to reduce cash handling, please utilize credit cards or checks for your payments. If you have questions please call us at 312-503-1103 or email us at chicagoparking@northwestern.edu. We are sorry, but at this time we are not able to process new requests for contractor parking.