To the VCU and VCU Health community,

As the spring semester begins, it is important that you have a renewed awareness about staying alert when traveling through VCU, VCU Health and the City of Richmond.

In recent weeks, several fatalities involving pedestrians have occurred on city streets, some near us. This is a painful reminder about the need to be aware of your environment when driving or walking.

We care deeply about all of you and want you to be safe and healthy.  

Distracted travel is an epidemic. VCU and the City of Richmond have made changes to improve safety, and will continue to do so. One of the most powerful tools we have for making our streets safer is focusing with self discipline on our own behaviors.

Even at low speeds, vehicles can cause significant harm. Headphones, cell phones and anything that pulls your attention away from the roadway should be put away until you arrive at your destination. It can wait, particularly if it prevents harm or saves a life.  

If you are driving near VCU or VCU Health, please remember:

• Obey posted speed limits. The speed limit throughout VCU’s campus is 25 miles per hour and is strictly enforced by VCU Police.
• Do not drive distracted. It is illegal in Virginia to hold an electronic device while operating a vehicle.
• Yield to pedestrians. This includes crosswalks – whether they are midblock or at intersections – and intersections where the speed limit is under 35 mph (all of VCU) until the pedestrian has passed.
• Follow traffic signs and signals. This includes “No Turn on Red” signs posted at nine intersections across the Monroe Park Campus.
• Give cyclists space. Ensure at least three feet when passing and maintain at a safe speed.

If you are walking, stay alert and use the tools available to you:

• Stay aware before and while crossing. Keep your head and eyes up and scan your surroundings.
• Use marked crosswalks. Cross at painted crosswalks and when the “walk” signal is displayed. If you do not have the signal, stay on the sidewalk.
• Assume drivers do not see you. Approach intersections expecting the unexpected.
• Make eye contact when possible. This helps ensure drivers know you are crossing.
• Use your senses. They are your best defense in an unpredictable environment.

We deeply appreciate your renewed focus on doing your part to keep yourself, and others, safe. Together, we can make this year successful and safe for everyone. 

Sincerely,

Clarence T. Hunter Jr., Chief of Police
Michael Rao, University President
Marlon Levy, CEO, VCU Health