This morning I wrote Marlon Lynch, who is the Chief of Police at the University of Chicago (as well as the Associate Vice President for Safety and Security), raising my concerns about mad-dog bicyclists who flout the law near campus.  Several people inquired about the U of C police department. It’s huge—I’m told it’s the biggest police department in Illinois after the City of Chicago’s but I’m not sure. But here are some data (note that they have over 100 officers!):

The University of Chicago Police Department (UCPD) has worked to keep our communities safe for more than 40 years. This professionally trained force operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from 37th to 65th Streets and Cottage Grove Avenue to Lake Shore Drive.

Our more than 100 state-certified police officers have full police powers. We respond to emergency calls, patrol neighborhoods, listen to residents’ concerns, conduct food and toy collections for neighbors in need, and more. Our reputation for quick response is a powerful force in the community.

And indeed, they’re highly visible and respond quickly.  And yes, they have full police powers and carry guns. There are also “call stations” scattered throughout Hyde Park with visible blue lights: you can reach the cops simply by pressing a button on these towers. When there’s a crime, I often see both U of C and Chicago police on the scene, but the U of C cops get there first.

It’s important to the U of C that their security be effective, as we’re located in the rough South Side of Chicago, and nobody wants to send their kids to a school where crime is a problem. (I’m told that the U of C once contemplated moving to Colorado to solve this problem, but I can’t vouch for that.)

At any rate, Mr. Lynch sent me a cordial reply that I don’t feel is unethical to post:

Prof. Coyne,

Thanks for sharing your concern.  You are correct, the cyclists are also required to follow the rules of the road.  I am also familiar with the Mayor’s initiatives regarding cycling in the city.  UCPD can work with the Chicago PD regarding this issue in Hyde Park.  UCPD will present an education component along with the enforcement.  Safe cycling will be part of the community policing initiatives that will be reintroduced with our revived bike patrol program.  Thanks again.

Marlon

Well, that’s a cordial and friendly reply, and it came only about 2 hours after I sent it.

I will of course follow up if I don’t see any changes.

And, unlike Ball State, I can’t be accused of being an interloper on this issue!