The University of Georgia has announced new measures to enhance campus security, with a focus on public safety. President Jere W. Morehead stated, "The protection of our students, faculty and staff at the University of Georgia is always top of mind for me and our senior administration, and we are continually evaluating our safety programs."
The $7.3 million investment includes a 20% increase to the UGA Police Department budget, additional campus safety personnel, more security cameras, lighting upgrades, license plate readers, and the installation of combined security camera-blue light call box systems in strategic locations across campus. Chief of Police Jeff Clark emphasized the impact of these funds on safety efforts, supporting the dedicated Police Department team and their partners.
Dr. P. Daniel Silk, UGA’s associate vice president for public safety, expressed appreciation for the ongoing commitment to campus safety, calling it "deep, unwavering, and long-lasting." The new security personnel will focus on enhancing security presence in key areas where students gather, such as the Miller Learning Center, UGA Libraries, Tate Student Center, and Ramsey Student Center.
The measures also include lighting upgrades, conversion of lights to LED technology for brighter illumination, and the addition of more security cameras and license plate readers. Perimeter fencing will be erected in several areas, and new signage will will convey the presence of security camera coverage across the entire campus.
Funding for these security investments will come from state resources and private contributions from various partners. Over the past eight years, the university has made significant strides in public safety, including hiring more police personnel, establishing a security camera network, enhancing lighting, implementing a nightly rideshare program, and launching the UGA Safe app.
The UGA Safe app offers features like Mobile Bluelight for immediate connection to the UGA Police, Friend Walk for sharing location with selected friends, and Chat with Police for reporting concerns. Parents of UGA students can also utilize the app for added peace of mind.
The university's commitment to ongoing safety enhancements reflects a deep dedication to campus security and the well-being of its community members.