University of Arkansas expects record growth

FAYETTEVILLE Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — While we don’t have numbers for this semester, the University of Arkansas says it expects overall and undergraduate enrollment to hit record highs.

Steven Civic has worked for the university for 10 years.

“Nothing’s changed since my first day, especially the traffic problems. Traffic’s always been a problem. We’ve had some folks get run over and the crosswalks with traffic not paying attention,” Civic said.

The University of Arkansas Police Department’s Assistant Chief Matt Mills said the department is initiating “Operation Saturation.” During this time, UAPD will increase the number of officers on staff from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

Officers will also be stationed throughout campus, assisting with traffic or other problems. Due to the high foot traffic, Civic believes there needs to be even more officers out patrolling.

“UAPD does a fairly good job, but I would like to have more enforcement as far as the pedestrian traffic. We just have a lot on campus,” Civic said.

As the first day of classes nears, UAPD has advice for people driving on campus.

It released a statement saying in part, “UAPD encourages everyone to be patient and plan for longer traffic commutes leave earlier than you have been leaving so you can get to your destination on time.”

To help reduce traffic on campus, Civic is advising university students and staff to take the bus.

“I think if they take the bus system into account, we can reduce a lot of that traffic and a lot of their frustrations on campus,” Civic said.

If you do find yourself walking on campus late at night and feel unsafe the university has a program that provides students with a safe means of transportation. You can call 479-575-SAFE (7233).

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