Boston Braces for College Move-In: City Prepares for 150,000 Students with Parking Restrictions, Inspections & Student Discounts
Boston, MA – As over 150,000 college and university students descend upon Boston this weekend, the city is rolling out a thorough plan to manage the annual move-in rush and ensure a smooth transition for both students and long-term residents. Mayor Michelle Wu detailed the preparations Friday, emphasizing coordination and proactive measures to mitigate potential disruptions.
“Move-in day is a special tradition in Boston,” Mayor Wu stated at a press conference in the student-heavy Allston neighborhood. “All that activity also means a lot of coordination, and it can feel a little hectic every day in this period throughout our neighborhoods. That’s why our administration has been hard at work…”
Key elements of the city’s move-in plan include:
Parking Restrictions: On-street parking will be limited in allston, Fenway, Mission Hill, and Roxbury to prioritize space for moving vehicles.
Construction Halt: The Inspectional Services Department (ISD) is suspending construction permits in these areas through Labor Day to reduce traffic congestion.
Increased inspections: Over 60 ISD inspectors will be deployed to neighborhoods with high student populations – including Allston, Brighton, Back Bay, Fenway, Mission Hill, and Beacon hill – to conduct inspections, distribute data, and ensure properties meet safety and sanitation standards. Inspectors will focus on proper trash disposal and hazard identification.
Traffic Advisory: “Don’t Get Storrowed!” Mayor Wu issued a stern warning to drivers of moving trucks to be aware of low bridges, particularly on Storrow Drive and Soldiers Field Road, to avoid costly and disruptive collisions – a phenomenon locally known as getting “Storrowed.” State officials have echoed this warning.
311 Access: City Councilor Sharon Durkan encouraged students to download the city’s 311 app for reporting issues and accessing city services.
Beyond Move-In: Supporting Students throughout the Year
The city’s efforts extend beyond the immediate move-in period. Students will benefit from a range of discounts and free admission opportunities,including:
Cultural Access: Free admission to the Museum of Fine Arts,Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum,Institute of Contemporary Art,and New England Aquarium. Discounted access to the JFK Library and Museum, Paul Revere House, and Museum of African American History.
Entertainment Deals: Tickets to the Boston Ballet, Huntington Theater, and Boston Symphony Orchestra starting at just $20.
Transportation Savings: A 55% discount on annual Bluebikes passes and free late-night MBTA rides on select fridays and Saturdays this fall.
Addressing Wider Concerns
Mayor Wu also briefly addressed the ongoing political tensions surrounding Boston’s status as a sanctuary city, reaffirming the city’s commitment to inclusivity. “A quarter of our students come from all over the world…we are a home for everyone,” she stated.Resources for Students:
City of boston 311: https://www.boston.gov/311
Boston Transportation Department Moving Truck Permits: Contact the BTD for information.
*Avoid Getting