System to increase parking lot security

The KU Public Safety Office this fall is adding a new security system to increase safety in campus parking lots.

Director Ralph Oliver said the Public Safety Office was in the process of acquiring and installing a closed-circuit television system that primarily will monitor parking lots. The equipment will be installed in phases. First priority will be given to lots near the Daisy Hill residence halls, lots near the Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics and the Lied Center, and the area around Gertrude Sellards Pearson residence hall.

“Although the primary purpose of the new system is personal security, we ask that people be aware of their surroundings,” Oliver said.

The concept is to have staff monitor the system and dispatch officers in case of emergency.

Oliver said Public Safety would continue to work with the Campus Safety Advisory Board, a committee of students and administrators who research safety concerns and make recommendations for improvements each year.

Ken Stoner, director of student housing and Campus Safety Advisory Board member, said improvements being considered this year included additional lighting at several locations across campus and new crosswalks on West Campus Road and 15th Street.

Additional information about safety on campus and campus crime statistics is available at the KU Public Safety Office Web site, www.ku.edu/~kucops/.