Facility Overview
Lot A (Parking Lot A) at Harford Community College is a primary open-air surface parking facility located on the college campus in Bel Air, Maryland (ZIP 21015). Situated conveniently off Thomas Run Road, this expansive ground-level parking lot provides direct access to academic halls, student services, and premier athletic and entertainment venues on campus. Because Lot A is completely open-air without overhead parking decks, it offers unrestricted vertical clearance, making it fully accommodating for all vehicle types including standard passenger sedans, pickup trucks, full-size SUVs, passenger vans, and high-roof delivery or service vehicles. The lot is paved, clearly striped, and laid out with wide driving aisles for easy two-way navigation.
Prime Location & Nearby Attractions
Strategically situated in the heart of Harford County, Lot A is within convenient walking distance of key educational, cultural, and sports attractions across the Harford Community College grounds and immediate neighborhood:
- APG Federal Credit Union Arena (APGFCU Arena): Located just a 2 to 4 minute walk away, this premier regional arena hosts collegiate basketball, concerts, family shows, conventions, and high school and college commencements.
- Chesapeake Center & Theater: A 3 to 5 minute walk, hosting theatrical plays, musical performances, and regional community conferences.
- Susquehanna Center & Athletic Complex: Home to Harford Fighting Owls athletics, gymnasiums, and outdoor sporting venues, situated right adjacent to campus parking.
- Bel Air Commercial Corridor: Just a 5 to 7 minute drive (approx. 2.5 miles) to downtown Bel Air, the Harford Mall, and numerous dining and retail amenities along Churchville Road (MD-22) and Baltimore Pike (US-1).
Access, Navigation & Transit Connectivity
Accessing Lot A is straightforward via Thomas Run Road and MD Route 22 (Churchville Road), which connects directly to Interstate 95 (Exit 85) to the east and central Bel Air to the west. Broad ingress points ensure smooth vehicle entry and swift dispersal even following high-attendance arena events or evening class dismissals. For local commuters relying on public transportation, Harford Transit LINK operates bus routes (including Route 1 and Route 2) serving designated stops on the Harford Community College campus, offering connections across Bel Air, Aberdeen, and Edgewood.
Facility Amenities & Key Features
- Spacious, level asphalt open-air surface parking with no height restrictions.
- Clearly marked ADA-accessible parking stalls located near primary pedestrian walkways and campus curb cuts.
- Well-illuminated premises featuring high-mast campus safety lighting throughout evening hours.
- 24/7 security oversight supported by Harford Community College Public Safety patrols and emergency call boxes.
- Complimentary general campus parking during regular academic operations and most public arena events.
- Pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and crosswalks connecting directly to main academic quads and event facilities.
Ideal For
- Attendees of basketball games, concerts, and public expos at the APGFCU Arena.
- Visitors attending theatrical shows, lectures, and cultural events at the Chesapeake Center.
- Daily Harford Community College students, faculty members, and administrative staff.
- Families and guests attending graduation ceremonies and youth sports tournaments on campus.
Visitor & Driver Tips
For major campus events at the APGFCU Arena or during spring commencement ceremonies, arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes early, as Lot A is among the first to fill due to its proximity to the main arena entrance. Follow posted signage for any reserved faculty or event staff parking zones to avoid ticketing by campus public safety. If entering via GPS, setting your navigation to Harford Community College off Thomas Run Road will guide you directly to the primary campus entrance adjacent to Lot A.