Steady population growth is usually a good thing. It's the sign of a healthy economy and a community that has a lot to offer. But steady, continuous growth can also mean congestion and conflict for vehicles and pedestrians trying to share limited space. This has become the case on roadways surrounding the University of Nevada, Reno.

For University Police Services, traffic complaints are routine.

"I get phone and email complaints about excessive speed, pedestrian-vehicle near misses and bike and skateboard incidents on a regular basis," Adam Garcia, Associate Vice President and Director of Police Services, said. "University Police patrol the roadways every day, and in case there's any question, yes, we do enforce traffic laws and issue citations for traffic violations in our jurisdiction. We do our best to respond to complaints and provide police presence where it's needed most."

Since August 2017, University Police Services officers have issued about 150 traffic citations for violations including speed, pedestrian crosswalk violations, distracted driving, failure to obey traffic signals/devices as well as many others.

"With drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists all on the same roads, pedestrians should also be alert and aware at all times," Amy Fitch, Bicycle Working Group Chair, said.

University Police Services partners with the Bicycle Working Group to educate both motorists and cyclists about public safety as well as assist in efforts to plan for separated paths dedicated to cyclists and pedestrians.

"One of the things we highlight is that everyone needs to be alert and give each other space," Fitch said. "The 3-foot law states when motorists pass cyclists, they must move into the left lane if there is one. If not, they must pass with at least 3-feet clearance from the bicyclist. While this is state law, University policy also mandates that bicyclists observe the 3-foot rule towards pedestrians as well."

Tim Wilmoth, University Police Services police officer, is additionally well aware of the concerns of citizens as he interacts with drivers and pedestrians on a daily basis.

"People sometimes assume that police have quotas to fill or that we get a percentage of the fees charged for traffic citations," Wilmoth said. "None of that is true of University police. Our main concern is the safety of the people who spend time on our campuses. Preventing injuries and fatalities is our primary goal."

University Police have supplemental funding from the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety to conduct special enforcement as part of the Nevada Joining Forces and Traffic Safety Programs. Officers coordinate monthly enforcement events with other local agencies for maximum impact. The focus of Joining Forces for the month of February is Impaired and Distracted Drivers. Officers from multiple agencies, including University Police, will be participating in these enforcement events.

"We appreciate citizens letting us know about problem areas and concerns," Garcia said. "We also strongly encourage all citizens to familiarize themselves with the Nevada laws for drivers and pedestrians and follow established guidelines, exercise caution and be alert while driving and walking."

For more information please contact University Police Services at 775-784-4013.