The organizers of the University of Houston’s “Walk in the Dark” are asking participants to bring a few things to this year’s event: comfortable shoes and lots of questions.

The fourth annual “Walk in the Dark” at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8 offers the campus community an organized nighttime tour of the campus to explore areas that might benefit from bolstered security or perhaps additional lighting. The event starts in front of the University Center and is open to all faculty, staff and students. It is sponsored by the Student Government Association (SGA) in conjunction with the UH Department of Public Safety (UHDPS) and Plant Operations.

As a result of previous “Walks,” the university has responded to security concerns adding enhanced lighting, new security cameras and additional police call boxes. Areas benefiting from observations made during “Walks” include Lynn Eusan Park, the Fine Arts Courtyard and the M.D. Anderson Library.

“This is the university’s way of putting its money where its mouth is with regard to public safety,” said Malcolm Davis, UH chief of police and executive director of public safety. “This event has generated feedback that’s been duly noted and acted upon by UH.”

Scheduled participants include members of SGA, UHDPS officers and members of the Plant Operations team including grounds, lighting and building maintenance personnel, project managers and directors.

Following the “Walk in the Dark,” shuttle buses will be available to pick up participants and return them to the starting point at the UC.

“This event really opens everyone’s eyes and thoughts about campus security after dark,” Davis said. “You might think about whether bushes or hedges are too high or wonder whether a police call box is more effective than a cellular phone. Discussions are formed during the tour and that helps us understand the concerns of the campus community and how to address them.”

Since last year’s “Walk,” the campus has undergone several changes including the completion of the new Welcome Center and the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Center for the Arts. Davis said that the campus’ constant evolution will make this annual event a tradition at the university.

“As the university grows, we have to make sure that everyone is comfortable and safe no matter what time of day or night,” he said. “New facilities create new responsibilities, and this event is one way of keeping everyone’s eyes open to the well-being of the campus and its community.”

Davis added that questions are very important to this event, and that even if someone cannot attend the “Walk,” he is always open to answering questions on campus security.

“Some of the best questions result in positive changes,” he said. “This event helps offer answers, but not everyone can make it, so I encourage everyone to call or contact UHDPS with any concerns or questions.”

UHDPS can be contacted online at http://www.uh.edu/police/feedback.html or by 713-743-3333.

Mike Emery
memery@central.uh.edu