USG passed a resolution asking the University to stop vehicles from driving on campus sidewalks.
The resolution intends to place a ban on media vehicles, delivery vehicles, and contractors’ vehicles, using University sidewalks. Buses for athletic teams and state vehicles are also included in the resolution.
“Every vehicle that is on this bill poses a threat to public safety,” John Toman, senator said.
USG notes that vehicles driving and parking along sidewalks are also a source of frustration for students. The resolution states that there is enough close parking to keep vehicles off the sidewalks. There are also loading docks at nearly all University buildings. The resolution notes that these facilities should be keeping vehicles off of campus sidewalks.
Emergency vehicles and those used in the removal of snow are exceptions from the proposed ban. Under the resolution vehicles will be permitted to drive on sidewalks only after being approved by the director of public safety.
Resolution author Brian Small had been concerned with this issue for some time. He decided to write the resolution after getting an e-mail from a student. The student had almost been hit by a state vehicle while walking along a campus sidewalk.
“I think it is about time that we take a stand on this issue,” Small, said.
The resolution asks to establish a task force to help regulate the problem. The task force will develop procedures regarding the use of vehicles. USG will appoint a minimum of four members of the undergraduate student body to the task force. Students will serve along with other facets of the University.
“A variety of departments will take part in the task force,” Small said.
According to the University’s risk management department there have been no injuries as a result of traffic along sidewalks. Risk management still considers the resolution to be beneficial to the safety of students, especially the creation of a task force. The task force will be headed by Ed Whipple Vice President of Student Affairs.
“The task force is an excellent idea and it has the full support of risk management,” Kim Miller, director of risk management, said.
The resolution will now be sent to University administrators and delivery companies. Administrators will consider the resolution and make a decision in the coming months. Small hopes that the final move will be a policy decision ceasing traffic on campus sidewalks.
“If the students would really rally behind this issue, it might move it along more quickly,” Miller said.
