Parking Revamped for Carolina Football

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — It’s almost that time again, time for Carolina Football and this year the place to be is right across the street from the stadium. “I think it’s going to be the hub of activity for football fans,” says Jeff Davis, Associate Athletics Director of Operations and Facilities at USC. While work is still being done, Davis says it will be ready. “Prior to the first game we will be completely ready, 100% ready,” says Davis. Complete with ‘The Garnet Way’ for fans to cheer on the team, ‘The Gamecock Village,’ six bathroom buildings and more room to enjoy tailgating, officials are pleased with the project. “I think it gives our donors a great facility to be proud of and to enjoy tailgating with family and friends on football Saturdays,” says Davis. The only thing left from the past is the old watermelon shed in the back. The revamp cost the university a total $15.5 million paid for by the ‘YES’ program in the Gamecock Club and money from the Athletics Department. But if you hoped to get a spot in the newly revamped area, think again it’s sold out. “It seems like there is a tremendous amount of excitement for this year’s season,” says Gary Goodman, Executive Director of the South Carolina State Fair. Just across the street, business is also booming at the state fairgrounds for football parking. According to Goodman, parking is selling red hot. “We are way ahead of where we were last year,” says Goodman. Try $40,000 ahead. Goodman says while they have never actually sold out the state fairgrounds for football parking, they are hopeful to do so this year. As for the old farmers market, more than 3,000 vehicles will be able to park in the area this year. If you bought a spot at the old farmers market and you have a parking permit, there will be an open house on Saturday, August 25th from 10:00 a.m. – Noon. You will be able to park at the fairgrounds and walk over to the market to see the newly revamped area and see your new parking space.