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WASHINGTON — In an effort to enhance security at William Paterson University by integrating both modern technology and the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-08) secured a $300,000 designation in a spending bill recently signed into law by President Obama to advance a newly coordinated campus safety initiative.
Pascrell, a member of the House Homeland Security Committee stated, “I applaud William Paterson University for pursuing federal resources to secure new technology and engaging the Sheriff’s Department in its effort to enhance campus security. Feeling safe and secure is an important part of every student’s education. This new federal funding will ensure that campus safety at William Paterson remains strong despite tough budgetary restrictions in this difficult fiscal economy. A safe campus is a safe community and I am confident that surrounding neighborhoods in Wayne Township, North Haledon and Haledon will also benefit through this new partnership.”
“I thank Congressman Pascrell for prioritizing public safety at William Paterson University and applaud the work he has done with the County to upgrade law enforcement technology,” stated Passaic County Sherriff Jerry Speziale. “Partnering with William Paterson University will create a new opportunities to effectively integrate modern technology in the Department’s effort to reduce crime in Passaic County.”
“The safety of our students, faculty and staff is always of paramount concern,” says Arnold Speert, president of William Paterson University. “Preventive measures are particularly crucial, and we are grateful for the federal support that will allow us to install state-of-the-art surveillance equipment in areas with high student traffic. This initiative will further enhance the high level of security and safety on campus.”
William Paterson University’s new security plan includes the purchase of surveillance cameras, radio frequency licenses and handheld portable radios.
Video surveillance equipment complementing enhanced exterior lighting will be installed in parking lots and around the exterior of public areas of residence halls creating remote observation posts for law enforcement and other safety personnel. Enhanced exterior lighting in these targeted areas will be integrated with communications systems for mobile communication and incident command systems between University Police and the Sheriff’s Department.
The federal funding will help establish a standardized formal public safety instructional program for the university populace and surrounding community. It will also help strengthen the partnership between University Police and Sheriff’s Department officers.
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