In December 2008 and this past January, the University Police Department experienced a change in the flow of traffic in the city of Commerce and around Texas A&M University-Commerce.
There were approximately 91 traffic stops made in December, including citations, verbal and written warnings, arrests and accidents. In January there was a dramatic increase to approximately 134 traffic stops.
“It’s people,” Lt. Jason Bone, crime information officer with the UPD said. “Fall semester is wrapping up in December and now there is 5-6,000 more people around here.”
Traffic calls were the top call report in 2008 with fire alarms at a close second. Approximately 40 calls for fire alarms in January alone were made.
Drivers are advised to be cautious when parking along Stonewall Street and Bryan Street.
“One thing is to be careful on Stonewall and Bryan Street, it is not zoned for ‘No Parking’ as of right now but in the up coming changes, there will be. It is just a bad place to park; you could get your car smashed,” Bone said.
Parking has still remained an issue in some residence halls.
“Prairie Crossing is owned by the University and parking permits are required to park; without them, tickets will be issued,” Bone said. “We are trying to quadruple any security over there and guys [UPD] hang out over there all the time.”
There have been numerous break-ins and car burglaries since the start of the new semester n Prairie Crossing and around campus.
“I caution students to be aware of what is visible in the car to someone, take any valuables or hide them and they will more than likely move on,” Bone said.
The UPD is eager to implement changes around Prairie Crossing, such as internet connections, apartment numbers on doors, emergency and alarm system updates.
“Until the contract ends, and we’re not sure when that is, we can get funding and start doing it,” Bone said.
There have been no new speed limit postings or speed changes around Texas A&M University-Commerce, but with the rise in population this semester, more tickets will be issued.