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Savannah State to Fence Off Its Campus

By John Milline
Black College Wire

Savannah State University will soon become a closed campus.

Photo credit: Savannah State University University believes fence will better protect the Tigers.

A decision to fence in the campus was reached in an effort to increase security and limit traffic. University President Dr. Carlton E. Brown said that 75 percent of the traffic that comes through the campus is unnecessary.

Savannah State has a 165-acre campus "bordering the vibrant, active and historic City of Savannah on one side, and the salt-water marshes rivers and ocean on the other side," as Brown describes it in his official message.

There will be two to three entrances that will require police supervision. Officers are to check university parking decals. Visitors will be allowed on campus only if they have legitimate business.

"I think everyone will like the idea of security, but it is going to be chaotic, causing a lot of traffic and a lot of problems," said SSU student Tuqean Jordan.

"Let's not even think about homecoming," Jordan added.

Those who have a reason to be on campus are to be issued decals that prove they are authorized to be there. Visitors are to be required to check in at checkpoints with information on the individual or individuals they are visiting.

Cynthia Buskey, director of administrative affairs, said the fence will probably minimize traffic on the main streets because people who do not have business on campus can no longer use it as a short cut or pathway.

Buskey said that a closed campus will cause fewer problems. The university will no longer be part of a neighborhood, but will become a distinctive site on its own, she said.

John Milline, a student at Savannah State University, writes for The Tiger's Roar.

Posted May 7, 2004