University Police Unveils Stylish New Uniforms and Boosts Bike Patrols for Enhanced Campus Safety

The University Police Department (UPD) at the State University of New York at Fredonia is making some exciting changes for the 2025-26 academic year. They’re introducing new navy-blue uniforms for officers and fully relaunching their Bike Patrol Program.

This fall, officers will switch from the traditional “SUNY Blue” uniforms to the modern navy design. This change comes from recommendations by SUNY Police Administration. It aims to tackle ongoing supply challenges while providing a stylish and cost-effective option that meets today’s law enforcement standards.

University Police Chief Gordon Carpenter shared, “This uniform update shows our commitment to adaptability and professionalism. It meets both our officers’ needs and those of our campus community.” The classic SUNY Blue will still be worn for special events, keeping a sense of tradition while moving forward.

Other SUNY campuses that have updated their uniforms report benefits such as better comfort and improved morale among officers. This suggests the navy-blue design could also boost team spirit at Fredonia.

Along with the uniform change, the UPD is expanding its Bike Patrol Program, which started as a pilot in April. The official relaunch in August will see officers biking around campus to foster greater interaction with students and staff.

Chief Carpenter mentioned, “Bike patrols increase visibility and create more opportunities for officers to connect with the community. It’s a green and approachable way to maintain our presence.” Plus, using bikes is more economical and eco-friendly than cars, as maintenance costs are lower and fuel use is minimized.

Feedback from the pilot phase has been overwhelmingly positive. Many community members appreciated the officers’ approachability on bikes, showing that this initiative fostered a more welcoming environment.

These changes reflect UPD’s proactive efforts to adapt to campus needs, focusing on visibility, engagement, and community service. As law enforcement evolves, so too do the strategies that aim to bridge the gap between police and the community.

Looking back, similar shifts in university policing have occurred over the years. For instance, bike patrols gained popularity in the early 2000s as a way to promote a friendly policing approach in college settings. This cycle of adaptation shows a consistent trend toward community-oriented policing.

In a recent survey by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, over 60% of respondents agreed that community engagement was a priority, echoing trends like those seen at Fredonia. As departments evolve, these efforts not only benefit officers but also create safer, more connected environments for everyone on campus.

The combination of a uniform update and the Bike Patrol Program illustrates a thoughtful response to modern policing needs, fostering a sense of trust and collaboration within the campus community.

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Local/Region,University Police introduces new uniforms, expanding bike patrols