UTPD is Moving This Semester
By Cashmir Khawaja
Reporting Texas TV
AUSTIN, Texas – The University of Texas at Austin Police Department (UTPD) will relocate its headquarters to West Campus as part of its commitments to campus safety.
Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies since July 2007, UTPD boasts a comprehensive array of resources and services aimed at ensuring the safety and security for the university community. These resources include an investigative division, K-9 teams, a bicycle patrol team, and dedicated 911 dispatch center.
Currently located at Walter Webb Hall on Guadalupe Street, UTPD is moving to 2400 Nueces in the heart of West Campus.
Students walk past the old UTPD West Building on Guadalupe Street in Austin, Texas, on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. (Cashmir Khawaja/Reporting Texas TV)
Assistant Chief Ashley Griffin reiterated UTPD’s community-oriented policing philosophy, emphasizing the importance of communication between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
“We really care about the interactions that our officers have with the community, and so whatever we can do try to enhance and make that positive for everyone, that’s one of our top goals,” Griffin said.
UT student Gianna Means expressed optimism about the department’s proactive approach to campus safety.
“It’s very reassuring to me that the UT Police Department is investing in infrastructure to keep everyone safe around campus. It gives me a lot more peace of mind when I’m walking home late at night or even just walking around during the day,” Means said.
Assistant Chief Griffin said she expects the relocation to enhance accessibility to students’ needs.
Mika Syms, a student at UT, said she is intrigued about this change.
“With this relocation, I think that having UTPD’s headquarters in the heart of West Campus is going to make it more convenient for students to access their services,” Syms said.
UT Police will move from the UTPD West Building, also known as Walter Webb Hall on Guadalupe Street in Austin, Texas. (Cashmir Khawaja/Reporting Texas TV)
In addition to its commitment to excellence through the CALEA accreditation, the assistant chief said UTPD’s relocation underscores its dedication to fostering a safer campus environment for all.
“We truly care about our students. They’re not just numbers. They’re not just a call,” Griffin said.
Through proactive policing strategies and community engagement initiatives, she said UTPD remains steadfast in its mission to prioritize the safety and well being of the university community.
Griffin said students can anticipate enhanced accessibility to UTPD’s resources as the department continues its preparations for the move, further strengthening the bond between law enforcement and the UT community.