Southern University has begun construction on a new police department building to address longstanding issues with the current facility and enhance safety on campus.
The project, located near the Intramural Sports Complex, is being led by Dr. Huey Lawson of Title III and was proposed by Police Chief Joycelyn M. Johnson. Dr. Lawson is also overseeing the ongoing construction near T.H. Harris Hall.
“This was long overdue,” Lawson said.
The current police building lacks sufficient space and accessibility. Individuals who need to file a report or address other matters are required to stand throughout the process due to the building’s limited capacity. Additionally, it is not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), preventing students and community members with disabilities from accessing essential services such as reporting crimes or paying parking fines.
“Also, it’s going to be difficult to recruit quality officers if they are not provided with an adequate work environment,” Lawson added.
The new facility is expected to be at least twice the size of the current building, offering improved functionality and working conditions for officers. Lawson believes this will help attract and retain qualified law enforcement personnel to better serve the Southern University community. The updated design will also include ADA-compliant features to ensure accessibility for all students.
Among the building’s new features is a community room at the front entrance, designed for students to study or relax. Notably, the facility will remain open 24/7 to serve as a safe haven for students who may need shelter or assistance at any hour.
The construction is being funded through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF), a federal initiative initially established to support students affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. With the immediate impacts of the pandemic waning, remaining funds are being redirected toward long-term student support projects like this one.
Lawson emphasized that all ongoing projects are designed with students’ well-being in mind. He concluded, “This construction process will be enhancing our safety.”
