Photo: Posters, bus cards and banners will be prominent on campus during Pedestrian Safety Week in an effort to prevent accidents and injuries to walkers and cyclists on campus. Photo by Paul Efland.
Photo: Posters, bus cards and banners will be prominent on campus during Pedestrian Safety Week in an effort to prevent accidents and injuries to walkers and cyclists on campus. Photo by Paul Efland.
By Danielle Chaloux
The university's Public Safety Division is sponsoring "Pedestrian Safety Week" Sept. 29-Oct. 5. The campaign is designed to heighten awareness of pedestrian safety in an effort to prevent accidents and injuries to students and other pedestrians on campus and surrounding streets.
Two years: 41 accidents
Between July 21, 1995, and July 21, 1997, a total of 41 accidents occurred on campus and surrounding streets involving at least one pedestrian or bicycle. In those 41 reported accidents, there were 36 injuries and one fatality.
Arrangements have been made with Athens-Clarke County Mayor Gwen O'Looney to have the week of Sept. 29 declared Pedestrian Safety Week. The proclamation was signed in a ceremony on Sept. 25. Representatives from the President's Office and the Student Government Association were present.
Campus traffic study
Public Safety Director Asa Boynton says that the safety campaign was prompted by a study of traffic and pedestrian problems on campus.
"One revelation was outstanding after the study: students disregard their own safety while maneuvering on campus," says Boynton.
Safety messages
Public safety officials will target UGA students with safety messages in a number of ways throughout the week including:
