Lexington, Kentucky, August 19, 2025
News Summary
The University of Kentucky prepares to welcome around 6,000 new and returning students during its Big Blue Move-In event. Scheduled changes to traffic, parking, and bus routes aim to facilitate the transition into campus life. Significant no-parking zones will be established, and multiple streets will switch to one-way traffic to manage the flow of vehicles. Activities will include an official welcome from university officials and student volunteers, marking a crucial moment for incoming students as they start their academic journey.
Lexington, Kentucky – The University of Kentucky is gearing up to welcome approximately 6,000 new and returning students during its Big Blue Move-In event, scheduled for August 17-20. This annual event marks the beginning of the academic year and is crucial for students transitioning into campus life.
During this period, significant parking, traffic, and transportation changes are expected around the university’s campus. No-parking zones will be established on several streets including Avenue of Champions, Martin Luther King Boulevard, Lexington Avenue, Huguelet Drive, University Drive, Avenue of Trees, Hilltop Avenue, Pedestrian Walkway, Woodland Avenue, Sports Center Drive, and Complex Drive. These restrictions will be in effect from 12:01 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily until August 20.
In addition to the no-parking zones, several streets will be converted to one-way traffic from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. This includes streets like Martin Luther King Boulevard, Lexington Avenue, Avenue of Champions, Huguelet Drive, Hilltop Avenue, Woodland Avenue, Sports Center Drive, and Pedestrian Walkway. The Lexington Police Department advises motorists to exercise caution and allow extra time for travel around the campus during this busy period.
Changes will also affect campus bus routes. The white route will continue to serve the central campus area, while the blue route will operate from Kroger Field to Limestone and back. Buses will run from 6:45 a.m. to midnight during the move-in days, returning to regular routes after the events conclude. The orange route will remain unchanged but may experience longer wait times due to increased traffic in the area.
On Monday afternoon, UK President Eli Capilouto will officially welcome new students at Pigman Hall. Welcome activities will include participation from UK cheerleaders, the Wildcat mascot, administrators, faculty, staff, and student volunteers, creating an engaging and friendly atmosphere for incoming students.
This year, the incoming freshman class has set a new record with over 6,500 students enrolled for the fall semester. The previous record for first-year enrollment was 6,571 students, and official enrollment numbers will be finalized in September when the Board of Trustees meets.
Walter Robinson, a custodian staff member who volunteers during move-ins, highlights the university’s commitment to assisting students as they settle into their new environment. For the past six years, Robinson has focused on helping students feel welcomed as they move in, a sentiment echoed by the Wildcat Welcome Team, who assist with the transition into campus life.
Students will have a 30-minute window to move their belongings from vehicles to their dorms. While many new students are excited, they also experience nervous feelings as they embark on this new chapter in their lives. The University of Kentucky attracts students not only for its appealing campus and diverse programs but also due to familial traditions, such as support for UK basketball.
The Big Blue Move-In event not only facilitates a smooth transition for students but also fosters a sense of community and belonging that characterizes the University of Kentucky.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Big Blue Move-In event at the University of Kentucky?
The Big Blue Move-In event is scheduled for August 17-20.
What changes to traffic and parking should students and parents expect?
There will be no-parking zones and several streets will convert to one-way traffic from 12:01 a.m. to 6 p.m. on move-in days. Motorists should drive carefully and allow extra time for travel.
How do bus routes operate during this time?
The white route will primarily serve central campus, while the blue route operates from Kroger Field to Limestone. Buses will run from 6:45 a.m. to midnight during move-in days and resume regular routes afterward.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | August 17-20 |
| No-Parking Zones | Avenue of Champions, Martin Luther King Boulevard, Lexington Avenue, and more |
| Traffic Changes | One-way streets from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and no-parking zones 12:01 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
| Bus Operations | Buses will run from 6:45 a.m. to midnight during event days |
| Incoming Freshman Enrollment | Over 6,500 students |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Avenue of Champions in Lexington to Close for Repairs
Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: New Students Move-In
- Wikipedia: University of Kentucky
- Kentucky Kernel: Big Blue Move-In
- Google Search: University of Kentucky move-in
- Fox 56 News: UK Welcomes New Wildcats
- Google Scholar: University of Kentucky education
- LEX 18 News: New Wildcats Move-In
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of Kentucky
- WTVQ: Volunteers for Big Blue Move-In
- Google News: Big Blue Move-In
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