The solar panel project being constructed in the northeast parking lot at Bakersfield College is past its expected construction deadline and is now expected to be complete by the middle of November.

“The goal was to be done the first day of school so the parking lot would be available,” said Amber Chiang Director of Marketing and Publications for BC.

With the start of construction set back by a three-week delay as the Contractors State License Board processed the needed paperwork, the field is expected to be fully active by the middle of November according to Chiang. Full parking should be available for students by the middle of October, with minor construction taking place in between.

A limited amount of parking will be available in the lot throughout construction and the area available will be moved and relocated throughout the construction process.

“Don’t expect to park in the same spot you did the day before,” said Chiang. “Pay attention to the [KCCD alert] emails because there might be changes in that parking configuration.”

Until construction is completed, Chiang encourages students to find alternative means of transportation, such as taking the bus, biking, and carpooling. Arriving early is also suggested.

“We have only lost 300 spots,” said Chiang, “but it hasn’t crippled us in our ability to park students.”

For students in need of places to park, free parking is also available in the south parking lot behind the baseball fields.