Tue. Dec 10th, 2024
Pedestrians continue to Jaywalk at Syracuse University
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT: Jaywalking remains common at Syracuse University

Danny Kramer: Cars and students fight for the right of way at an intersection that is always busy, just at the entrance of Syracuse University. Jaywalking is a common theme. Students have things to do and classes to attend so sometimes that means ignoring the 3… 2… 1. However, the New York Post, New York Times and CBS News all report how jaywalking is now legal in New York City. So is it really a problem at SU? Patrol commander for SU’s Department of Public Safety James McLellan hasn’t had any.

James McLellan: You know, because it is so rare, I don’t know of any particular incidents that involve somebody crossing the street when the light told them they can’t.

Kramer: This does not mean that walkers don’t have to pay attention.

Kramer: While it is rare that jaywalking can lead to an accident here on campus, it’s still important that you be careful. As you can see behind me, there are a bunch of cars moving in this three-way intersection. So it’s important that you stay alert: maybe look up from your phone, take a headphone out if you’re listening to music to be aware of your surroundings, or you can just be super careful and wait until the light turns green for you to cross— safely.

Kramer: It is safer to use these pedestrian call buttons, but students such as Jacob Erlbaum generally decide to take their chances.

Jacob Erlbaum: It’s so inconvenient to wait to cross the street, and like, if there’s no cars coming and I think I can make it, I’m going. I’m not waiting.

Kramer: Despite incoming cars, for now there seems to be no rush in stopping jaywalking. For NCC News, I’m Danny Kramer. 

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — At Syracuse University’s entrance, students and cars constantly battle for the right of way at a busy three-way intersection. With demanding schedules and tight class transitions, students often ignore pedestrian signals, jaywalking across the street.

Intersection at the entrance to Syracuse University's campus.
Cars drive through the intersection of Waverly Avenue and University Avenue © 2024 Danny Kramer

According to reports from the New York Post, New York Times and CBS News, jaywalking is now legal in New York City. However, it raises questions about how it impacts Syracuse University’s campus. James McLellan, patrol commander for Syracuse University’s Department of Public Safety, said jaywalking incidents rarely lead to significant issues.

“You know, because it is so rare, I don’t know of any particular incidents that involve somebody crossing the street when the light told them they can’t,” McLellan said.

Although accidents are rare, students are reminded to prioritize safety when crossing the street. The busy intersection demands awareness of surroundings, especially when cars are coming from multiple directions.

Despite the risks, many students admit they prefer to take their chances, crossing without waiting for the “walk” signal.

“It’s so inconvenient to wait to cross the street, and like, if there’s no cars coming and I think I can make it, I’m going. I’m not waiting,” said student Jacob Erlbaum.

Pedestrians crossing the street
Pedestrians cross the street on Waverly Avenue © 2024 Danny Kramer

If you are going to ignore the streetlights, then pedestrians are encouraged to take precautions such as looking up from their phones or lowering the volume on their headphones.

For now, jaywalking remains a common sight at Syracuse University, but students are encouraged to continue to stay cautious to avoid any potential incidents.