Dear Faculty and Staff,
We recognize the ongoing issues with electronic locks across campus and understand the frustration this has caused. Ensuring reliable access to classrooms and offices is a priority for Public Safety, and we are actively working to address the problem while implementing both immediate and long-term solutions. Below is a detailed breakdown of the challenges, our response, and the path forward.
Issue Summary
- Several electronic locks have been experiencing rapid battery drainage, sometimes within days or weeks instead of the expected 3–6 months.
- Impacted doors include but are not limited to: HPE Bldg. 108, 302, A-Core 1C04, 1C05, 1D06, 1D09, 1E08, 2B01, 2B03, 2B09, 2C05, 2M04, 3B01, 3B02, 3C04, and Science Bldg. SC102
- Some failures are due to the access control system (PIM devices), which are not functioning correctly and require frequent resets.
- The root cause appears to be our current access control software and locking device firmware which is forcing locks to communicate excessively with the system, depleting batteries at an accelerated rate.
Immediate Actions Taken
- Battery replacements continue as needed, with our locksmith working diligently to maintain functionality.
- Manual key distribution has been expanded where feasible to provide faculty with alternative access.
- Public Safety officers respond to access requests when needed, though response times may vary due to other simultaneous duties.
- Some delays occur when officers arrive, but no faculty member is present.
- In high-security areas, doors are not opened unless a professor is on-site.
- During peak times, officers may be assisting with multiple lock issues and calls for service leading to brief wait times.
Short-Term Plan (In Progress)
- We are working with our current access control provider, Sielox, to update the system software.
- The current quoted cost for this system-wide update is approximately $19,000, and we are actively seeking additional quotes to ensure the most cost-effective solution.
- Once implemented, the software update should stabilize the system and reduce battery failures, mitigating many of the current issues.
Long-Term Solution
- A major capital project is underway to replace and modernize the campus-wide security camera and access control system.
- This project is currently under review by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and we anticipate funding approval by Spring 2026.
- While this will be a long-term fix, the necessary updates in the interim will ensure that we maintain functionality until the new system is in place.
Commitment Moving Forward
- We acknowledge the challenges these issues have created and appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work toward a sustainable solution.
- Our team is fully committed to resolving this problem and ensuring that faculty have reliable access to their classrooms and offices.
- We will continue to provide updates as progress is made and appreciate your support.
In the meantime, if a lock stops working, simply send Freddie Sanchez, the locksmith, a short email at FSanchez@PROTECTED
and copy Chief James Assmann and Me.
The issue will be addressed ASAP!
Please do not hesitate to contact me or Chief Assmann with any questions or additional concerns.
Thank you.
Eduardo Rios Office: 718-262-2104
Vice President for Finance & Administration Cell: 929-720-2167
Chief Financial Officer/ Chief Facilities Officer Email: erios9@PROTECTED
MS Teams: eduardo.rios09@PROTECTED
94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. Jamaica, NY, 11451.
