EDITORIAL: The Right Direction

University President JudithUniversity President JudithRodin's new University safetyUniversity President JudithRodin's new University safetyplan is a step in the rightUniversity President JudithRodin's new University safetyplan is a step in the rightdirection for reducing crimeUniversity President JudithRodin's new University safetyplan is a step in the rightdirection for reducing crimeon and off campus.University President JudithRodin's new University safetyplan is a step in the rightdirection for reducing crimeon and off campus._____________________________ Instead of simply increasing the size of the police force or giving the issue lip service like her predecessors, Rodin has chosen to reevaluate campus safety and take strong preventative measures. We praise her for the vision she shows in her new plan that in part calls for "Community Walks" featuring improved lighting, more blue light phones, more security patrols and five security kiosks. The placement of these walkways -- Locust Street between 33rd and 43rd streets; 36th Street between Chestnut Street and the Nursing Education Building; and Walnut, Spruce and Pine streets, from 39th to 43rd streets -- illustrates that Rodin recognizes the areas of concern for students. The plan is a refreshing approach and reveals the president's willingness to invest time and money in the safety of the University community. Rodin must also realize, however, that any safety plan must be part of a larger initiative to revitalize the community around us. The University's first responsibility must be to protect its students, faculty and staff, but it also must attack the root of the problem by reinvesting in West Philadelphia. We urge Rodin to build strong neighborhood ties and help redevelop the area so that we all have less crime from which to be protected. And students must also contribute to any safety proposal. It is imperative that students become participants in their own safety. If Community Walks are formed, the students must use them. The more people who use these walks, the safer they will be for everyone. Rodin has formulated a good framework for safety and seems committed to its goals, we now urge students to do their part. The goal of safety can only be achieved through a combined effort of the University, its police officers and its students.