UNM adjusts parking and fan operations amid high football attendance expectations

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 3:05 AM

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

Summary

UNM athletic director Ryan Berryman is introducing new game day procedures to manage significant increases in fan attendance at University Stadium. After the university recorded a 57.8% jump in average home attendance during the 2025 season, the school is transitioning to directed parking in the Stadium East lot to improve space management. Fans are now required to follow lot attendant instructions, and the school has introduced a limited number of reserved spots for advance purchase. These changes come as the athletic department balances high spectator interest with the logistical demands of hosting home football games. University officials remain focused on accommodating larger crowds while maintaining organized tailgating experiences for the upcoming schedule. Game day operations will now involve expanded use of nearby CNM parking lots under UNM supervision.

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By the Numbers
  • UNM recorded a 57.8% increase in average home football attendance during the 2025 season.
  • Stadium East parking is now managed by attendants rather than on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Reserved parking spots are available in advance for $100 per game or $500 for the season.
  • Tailgating in designated lots concludes at the 8:10 p.m. kickoff time.
  • Additional parking space is available at multiple CNM lots under the direction of UNM staff.
Latest Updates
  • 3:05 AMYahoo SportsUNM preps for more fans, parking challenges in high-expectation football season
What they're saying
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Ryan Berryman is grateful for what he inherited. The first-year Athletic Director at UNM knows that Lobo sports is in a time of high expectation, especially in the three headliner sports of men’s basketball, women’s basketball and — most pertinent to the present moment — football. “I couldn’t ask for anything more,“ he said. ”I think the same is true for coaching. The situation you walk into, ...

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