The College Community,

As we continue our efforts to enhance campus safety and accessibility, I would like to share some important updates and request your cooperation in creating a safer environment for all.

Traffic Safety Reminder – Red Light Violations

We have noticed that some members of our campus community have been running the red light at the entrance to our parking lot. This behavior poses a serious safety hazard to pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists. Effective immediately, anyone caught running the red light to enter the campus parking lot will lose their parking privileges. Reports of violations will be reviewed using our CCTV cameras on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard.

We urge everyone to exercise caution, obey traffic signals, and respect the rules of the road. Your cooperation is essential in keeping our campus community safe.

Traffic & Safety Improvements in Progress

In addition to addressing internal concerns, I have been actively working with the Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) to implement important safety improvements in the areas surrounding our campus. Here are some updates:

• Red Light & Speed Camera Request: I am in ongoing discussions with the D.O.T. to install a red light and speed enforcement camera on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard to deter reckless driving and improve compliance with traffic laws. I have also requested speed strips to help slow traffic, along with additional signage.

• York College Public Safety Traffic Enforcement:
  During peak hours, a dedicated York College Public Safety officer is stationed on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard to assist with traffic flow and enhance pedestrian safety. Our officers play a proactive role in preventing potential traffic hazards during rush hours.

• Street Lighting Enhancements: The D.O.T. has approved our request for additional street lighting along Guy R. Brewer Boulevard, from Liberty Avenue to South Road. I am also working to secure similar lighting for 160th Street and Liberty Avenue in front of the Health & Physical Education Building.

• Sidewalk Parking Prevention (158th & Archer): After more than two years of planning and advocacy, the D.O.T. has approved the installation of street furniture, including bike racks and planters, to prevent illegal sidewalk parking in this area. This project will be implemented in the coming weeks.

• 159th Street & Archer Walkway Enhancement: Starting Monday 2/10/2025 This space will undergo improvements as part of our Capital Campus Beautification Project. The enhancements will feature new lighting, security gates, and an upgraded pedestrian area. The project is expected to take approximately eight months to complete. We request that anyone entering the campus from 159th Street use either the Classroom building or Liberty Avenue to access the space. 

• Guy R. Brewer Traffic Enhancements: While progress has been slow, we are seeing steady improvements. The D.O.T. has already installed concrete barriers and new road markings at key intersections to increase safety for pedestrians and vehicles. However, there is still much work to be done, and I will continue to advocate for additional safety measures on behalf of our campus.

Community Effort

These improvements are the result of collaboration, persistence, and a shared commitment to safety. I want to thank you all for your patience and support as we work with city agencies to create a safer, more secure environment. I will continue to keep you informed as these projects develop.

Let’s all do our part—whether by obeying traffic laws, respecting pedestrian pathways, or supporting safety initiatives—to make York College a safer place for everyone.

Thank you for your continued support!

 Best regards,

Chief James Assmann
Director of Public Safety
CUNY York College
94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Office AC-1M02
Jamaica, NY 11451
(718) 262-2218