Driving directions

Directions to CCBC Essex and a map of the campus are available on the college website.

Entry, parking and exit directions

• Graduates, faculty and staff participating in the ceremony are encouraged to arrive early. All lots will be open to the general public at 10 a.m.
• Free parking is available throughout the campus. For the lots closest to the commencement ceremony venue:
• Lot 2 – Faculty/Staff/VIPs
• Lot 3 – Handicapped and senior drivers
• Lot 4 – Open parking and handicapped overflow
• PLEASE NOTE: Faculty/staff, handicapped drivers, senior attendees and VIPs should enter the campus from Rossville Boulevard in the RIGHT lane so they can turn right (toward the CCBC Children's Center) from the right lane.
• Individuals with limited mobility and requiring assistance will be directed to designated parking upon arrival at the main entrance to the campus.
• Guests, faculty and staff are encouraged to park at the Franklin Square Hospital Center employee lot, which is in the rear of the facility (the lot adjoining CCBC Essex.) It is very easy to enter and exit, and the designated parking lots are close to the tent.
• After the ceremony, exiting traffic should use two lanes to Rossville Blvd., one from Lot 1 (upper and lower bays), and one from the south side of the campus (South Campus Drive – CCBC Children's Center area)

Please make note of the entry and exit directions outlined in the maps linked below:

ENTRY traffic map

EXIT traffic map

Weather concerns

Prior to and during commencement, members of CCBC Public Safety and Plant Operations will be evaluating weather conditions that might affect the event. Light rain or drizzle will not be a factor, but high winds or lightning may cause changes to the ceremony schedule.

In the event severe weather or other circumstances require a tent evacuation, the ceremony emcee will ask that people move promptly to their cars, or to buildings B, D or E. Public Safety officers on duty will assist in guiding guests to those locations. Cars are the preferred destination, as building capacities are limited.

The decision to continue the event will be made as soon as conditions allow. Public Safety and event staff will announce updated information by moving through the buildings and parking lots.