A traffic unit is being added in the Community Services Division of Augusta University Police Department. Chief James Lyon said CSD was established a couple years ago to enhance connections and security with the community. The new unit is the next step in the process.
In a March 2021 letter, Chief Lyon said the unit will do more than enforcing traffic laws.
“The unit will focus on vehicular and pedestrian safety, including design, signage, and safety initiatives that assist with present needs and forecasts future problems in and around all of Augusta University and Augusta University Health property,” Lyon said.
The unit will start with two members using motorcycles. A new Harley-Davidson police motorcycle has been ordered. Chief Lyon said they are also talking with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office about a 2007 Harley-Davidson police motorcycle not currently in use. AU asked Richmond County to consider donating the motorcycle and is waiting a final decision.
Chief Lyon said there will also be bicycle patrols, primarily within the AU Health and Summerville campuses.
Chief Lyon has been at AU since 2016. He said the decision to start the CSD and traffic unit is the result of his review of traffic reports, including a 2015 pedestrian fatality, and complaints the department has received.
All AU officers are certified by Georgia’s Police Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Council. Although their focus is within a 500-yard perimeter around all campus properties, they are equivalent to Georgia State Patrol troopers in regard to their enforcement and arrest powers.
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Members of the new traffic unit will receive some advanced P.O.S.T. training related to their additional duties. The traffic unit officers will also still respond to calls for service and assistance.
Chief Lyon said he is planning an open house to introduce the officers when the traffic unit is up and running.
Dana Lynn McIntyre is a Staff Reporter with The Augusta Press. You can reach her at dana@theaugustapress.com.
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