Over the past few weeks, discussions have taken place with students, faculty, staff, and local community partners about ways to improve safety both on and off campus. Today I announce improvements that will be occurring at the Syracuse Stage complex on East Genesee Street, home to the SU Drama Department and Central New York's only professional Equity theater.
This performing arts complex is frequented by students, faculty, staff, and members of the community. Sometimes it is a very busy place. At other times, only a few people are around the building. Many of you have shared with us the need for increased security measures at these quieter times.
The Department of Public Safety is working with the Syracuse Police Department to increase the presence of police and Public Safety officers around the Stage complex. Lighting will be improved in the parking lot across the street. A Public Safety officer will be hired and trained to monitor the building seven days per week during evening hours until the building is closed at midnight. Further, I note that the bus service to and from the Stage has been improved over the last year in response to student requests, and we will continue to monitor the buses' timeliness.
Many of you also have requested installation of a "blue light" at Syracuse Stage. Major Michael Byrne from the Department of Public Safety has been appointed to oversee Stage security, and he will explore additional enhancements, including more lighting, exterior cameras, and an emergency call system. We also will continue to work with our partners on the Hill to further improve safety on the west side of campus.
I want to remind you, too, of steps you can take to maintain your personal safety and reduce opportunity for crime. Don't walk alone at night. Be aware of your surroundings. Be alert to suspicious behavior and report it. For more personal safety tips, visit the Public Safety web site at http://sumweb.syr.edu/pubsafe/personsafety.html.
Working together, we can make SU a safer place to live and learn.
Sincerely,
Kenneth A. Shaw
