COLUMBIA, S.C. — There are just four days until the start of college football season.
As Gamecock fans prepare for Saturday's game against Georgia State, News 19 has the dos and don'ts for game day parking.
The Gamecocks hit the field on Saturday and Gamecock fans are dreaming of what they said is the best part of college pigskin season.
“I guess the tailgating.”
“It’s gotta be the tailgating.”
“tailgating.”
But before they can get to the pre-game festivities, there are a few frustrations.
“The traffic is terrible.”
“Actually getting there.”
“Honestly it is getting there.”
This traffic is caused by limited parking and road closures.
“If you leave early in the morning you have to kind of endure the heat but you get there in time to have fun," one fan said.
The competition happens before the Gamecocks enter the field.
It starts on the pavement in the parking lot. According to USC, there are three parking lots allocated for game day parking. Gamecock Park for $60, SC State Fair lot for $40, and Woodstock for $30.
USC suggests bringing a debit or credit card to pay for parking the day of because ticket booths will not accept cash. Another option the school recently added is the digital parking pass on the USC Gamecocks mobile app.
The athletic department also advises gamegoers to be sure to leave no later than two hours after the game.
Avoid areas around Williams-Brice Stadium. Those streets include Key, Bluff, Stadium Roads, and George Rogers Boulevard. If this advice is not followed, there could be a fine of about $155 and towing.
A Gameday shuttle is available at no charge for USC students with a valid Carolina Card and $10 per person for the general public. Pickup locations are at the corner of Lincoln and Devine streets and The Russell House at 1400 Greene St. Shuttles take off beginning 3 hours before kickoff until approximately 1 1/2 hours after the game, with limited service throughout the game. Drop-off points are inside the State Fairgrounds across from Williams-Brice.