Navigating Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg: A Comprehensive Guide

Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg (CU-Bloomsburg), a campus of Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania, is located in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania. Formerly known as Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, it is part of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). Established in 1839 as Bloomsburg Academy, the institution has undergone several name changes, reflecting its evolution from a literary institute to a state teachers college and finally, a comprehensive university. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to navigating the CU-Bloomsburg campus, highlighting its key features, facilities, and essential information for students, faculty, and visitors.

A Brief History

The institution's journey began as Bloomsburg Academy (1839-1856), followed by Bloomsburg Literary Institute (1856-1869), Bloomsburg Literary Institute and State Normal School (1869-1916), Bloomsburg State Normal School (1916-1927), Bloomsburg State Teachers College (1927-1960), Bloomsburg State College (1960-1983), Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania (1983-2022). Its establishment dates back to 1839, marking 187 years of academic presence.

Campus Overview

CU-Bloomsburg is situated on the northern bank of the Susquehanna River in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The campus is built on a hill rising above the town of Bloomsburg. The campus is divided into distinct areas: a lower campus with dining options, learning spaces, and an Academic Quad featuring a fountain, and an upper campus with athletic facilities.

Key Features:

Academic Buildings: These house classrooms, lecture halls, laboratories, and faculty offices, supporting a wide array of academic programs.
Residence Halls: More than 3,500 students reside in seven residence halls, three apartment complexes, and suite-style accommodations.
Recreational Facilities: The Student Rec Center offers strength and cardio equipment, fitness classes, a rock-climbing wall, an indoor track, a CrossFit space, and multi-purpose courts.

Student Life and Housing

More than 3,500 students call campus home, living among seven residence halls, three apartment complexes, and a sweet suite-style complex - all within steps of dining options, available recreation, and picturesque views. Learning communities enhance the Husky experience, where students with similar majors, interests, and life goals participate in programs, field trips, and classes, guided by upperclass mentors.

Off-Campus Housing Options

JAG Housing offers off-campus student housing options in Downtown Bloomsburg, within walking distance to the CU-Bloomsburg Main Campus. These apartments are fully furnished and maintained.

Read also: Bloomsburg University Housing

35 East Main Street: Offers luxury-style living with granite countertops, private bathrooms, hardwood floors, and furnished bedrooms.
36 East Main Street: Features 5 and 6 bedroom apartments above Fog and Flame Craft Coffee and Espresso Bar.
40 East Ridge Avenue: Built in 2017, offers modern amenities and is located behind Main Street.
111 West Main Street: The original headquarters of “The Morning Press” with exposed brick walls.
570 East Second Street: Newly renovated and located close to campus.
202-204 Penn Street (The Blue House): Situated across from the Tri-Level parking lot and Carver Hall.
333-335 Lightstreet Road: Features updated amenities and a shared deck.
Lightstreet Road Free-Standing House: A remodeled house with original hardwood floors and a stone fireplace.

Dining Options

Bloomsburg is ranked as the #10 Best College Food in Pennsylvania. The flagship all-you-care-to-eat dining facility is the Scranton Commons. Monty’s is a cafe-style spot on upper campus. The Husky Lounge offers wraps, bagels, and soups. Other options include Qdoba, Subway, Chick-fil-A, Bento Sushi, Starbucks, and Dunkin Donuts.

Student Activities and Engagement

Bloomsburg offers opportunities for fitness and athletic ability, including 23 intercollegiate athletics programs. The Student Rec Center has fitness equipment, classes, a rock-climbing wall, an indoor track, a CrossFit space, and courts. Intramural competitions (including Esports) and club teams are available. There are over 225 clubs to choose from.

Transportation and Parking

Navigating campus is easier when you understand parking policies and shuttle services. The Transportation and Shuttle Services department employs full-time and part-time bus operators with PA Commercial Driver Licenses.

Shuttle Services

Shuttle services are available, but schedules may vary due to weather conditions. Real-time shuttle tracking is available.

Parking Regulations

Motor vehicle parking on CU-Bloomsburg's campus is regulated and enforced by university police. Motorists should park in appropriate locations, obtain permits, and follow posted rules. CU is not responsible for loss or damage to parked vehicles.

Read also: Bloomsburg University Legacy

Permit Requirements: Students parking cars on campus must register their vehicles with university police and park in specific lots. Faculty and staff no longer need hangtags; their license plates serve as their permits. Visitors must obtain a short-term parking pass from University Police or designated departments.
Parking Locations: Commuter students park in designated lots. Resident hall students with 60+ credit hours can park in the First Street (Green) Lot. Students with less than 60 credits can park in the Blue Lot or Orange lot, with semester fees applicable. University Apartment residents park in designated spaces near their complexes.
Visitor Parking: Overnight visitors on lower campus need a virtual pass from University Police to park in the Green lot overnight. Overnight visitors at University Apartments on upper campus need a pass from the JKA Community Building.
Restricted Areas: Parking is restricted for resident directors, the Community Government Association, and University vehicles.
Handicapped Parking: Handicapped parking spaces are located throughout campus.
Special Events Parking: Designated parking lots for sports activities are on upper campus near the athletic facilities.
Fines and Penalties: Parking tickets are $15 (plus $4.95 payment processing fee) and can accumulate hourly. Three or more unpaid tickets may result in vehicle booting or towing. Illegally parking in a fire lane or handicapped space carries fines of $50 to $200.
Payment: Parking and boot fees are paid online via The Permit Store. Unpaid citations may result in a HOLD on the student account.

Important Notes

All parking lot signage supersedes the campus parking map.
Parking on University-owned or leased property is at the driver’s own risk.
Faculty and staff may register three vehicles.
Disabled vehicle permits are available from University Police.

Bloomsburg Town Police

Bloomsburg Town Police enforces parking regulations on Second Street, where CU-Bloomsburg permits are not valid. A pay-by-phone service by Passport Parking is required in this area.

Additional Resources

University Police: Located near the Andruss Library, they provide visitor permits and answer parking questions. Contact them at 570-389-4168 or 570-389-2211.
The Permit Store: For paying parking tickets and managing permits, visit bloomsburg.thepermitstore.com.

Read also: Academic Calendar Guide

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