UT to G-10 tailgaters: Pack up your tents, grills

The UT Athletics Department is cracking down on tailgate parties that get a little too big for the available space in parking lot G-10.

So, get your fold-up chairs out of my parking spot.

Leave that grill at home or put it in the grass, not where my car is supposed to go. Need to put up a canopy tent and a table for all that food? Do it somewhere else. It won't be permitted in G-10, the major lot located between Thompson-Boling Arena and Neyland Stadium.

A letter outlining concerns was sent this week to all UT fans with a parking pass for G-10. Officials also will hand out the letter again as people park their vehicles for Saturday's 4 p.m. homecoming game against Marshall.

"There were several different issues we thought needed to be addressed," Tiffany Carpenter, director of public relations for the Athletics Department, said Thursday. "Crowds were congregating and pass holders were taking additional spots for the tents and grills, etc.

"We just felt these changes needed to be made to ensure a safer, more-pleasant experience for all of our pass holders."

Problems apparently caused some heated exchanges prior to last week's Florida game.

"Many pass holders, despite arriving two hours before the game, found themselves boxed in among unruly crowds as they simply tried to find a parking spot," the letter to pass holders states. "On behalf of the entire University, we apologize for the problems that occurred Saturday.

"The situation that has arisen in the G-10 area simply cannot be tolerated."

Beginning Saturday, officers will "strictly enforce" a prohibition against tents and grills in the parking area.

Carpenter mentioned that traffic flow has at times been impeded and that there are concerns an ambulance or other emergency vehicle could have a hard time responding to a call in the garage.

All tailgating activities have to be limited to your specific parking space, with no spreading out to take up two or three spots. Authorities also will be looking for underage consumption of alcohol.

The parking pass must be prominently displayed on the rearview mirror, and people wanting shade are encouraged to park in one of the lower levels.

Mark Burgess may be reached at 865-342-6277.