To increase safety measures on the most bustling parts of Rowan’s campus, The President’s Office and Gloucester County officials have worked in collaboration to instate crossing guards on Route 322 between South Campus Drive and Trustee Lane. This is the first time that Rowan has hired crossing guards to work on and near campus. 

There are currently four in rotation that work on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lt. Commander Rachel Baum of the Rowan Police Department said that these hours may change depending on the need of the guards. 

“This project is meant to promote safety amidst the increasing volume of both pedestrian and vehicle traffic,” said Baum. 

One of the guards is former Wildwood police officer Vincent Bristow, whose first day was Jan. 28. Bristow was hired by Allied Security and heard, “There was a kid and a service dog who got hit by a car.” 

Luke Albus, a senior biology major, frequently crosses 322 to get to the Science Building. 

“I definitely feel better with a crossing guard on duty, it’s really crowded getting to and from class,” said Albus. 

Although he sees this as a positive thing, Albus is weary of the guards’ shifts. 

“I feel like they should be on duty later in the day too when drunk driving is more likely to happen,” said Albus. 

As the university learns how to navigate a growing number of students each year with a mix of commuters and Glassboro residents, pedestrian safety may be one of the issues at the forefront. 

“This initiative is a proactive approach to pedestrian safety, which will be a benefit to everyone,” said Baum.

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