Yekaterinburg authorities are considering closing a popular parking lot near Ural Federal University (UrFU) due to complaints from local residents about noise and an increase in accidents. The gatherings, which attract car enthusiasts for tuning, drifting, and socializing, have led to disturbances and property damage.

In response to the issues, city officials are exploring options to raise the surface level of the parking area in Kirov Square and install speed bumps near the Suvorov Military School and the Institute of New Materials and Technologies of UrFU. This action aims to deter gatherings and reduce accidents.

The situation has sparked mixed reactions among car enthusiasts. Some, like Mikhail, a tuned Nissan owner, support the closure, acknowledging the disturbances caused to nearby residents. He suggested the creation of a designated racing track outside the city to address the need for a safe space for motorsports.

Blogger Sveta Ananas, a regular attendee, expressed concern about the lack of alternative meeting places, suggesting that enthusiasts would likely continue to gather in the area despite the changes. She highlighted the parking lot’s significance as a social hub and a place to appreciate modified cars.

Other attendees voiced concerns about the impact on students who rely on the parking lot and the unfair generalization of all car enthusiasts as reckless drivers. One Nissan driver argued that the closure would negatively affect “cultural people” who need a place to gather and channel their energy positively.

The parking lot has been a long-standing issue, with residents complaining about disturbances. Motorcyclists who frequent the area acknowledged the discomfort caused to residents but noted that people will always find somewhere to gather.