With the University of Idaho and Washington State University in such close proximity to each other, any given weekend could bring extra visitors to the Palouse. This weekend, however, nearly 100,000 visitors are expected to arrive in the Moscow-Pullman area.
UI Director of Emergency Management and Security Services Todd Perry said the university’s Department of Public Safety and Security will be on higher alert this weekend because of the added population.
UI’s homecoming celebrations and WSU’s football game against the Oregon Ducks will combine for an influx in visitors roaming the Palouse.
“This is the largest expected gathering (on the Palouse) within the last few years,” Perry said.
To help ensure safety is of high importance to students and community members, Perry said officials will send out informational notifications when concerns arise and work more closely with other safety departments.
“We also work with local police and fire departments, as well as our colleagues at WSU to ensure that communication lines remain open and we are prepared to assist each other if necessary,” Perry said.
Perry said severe traffic congestion is expected this weekend. Safety officials also encourage drivers to be more aware of the increased number of pedestrians walking to and from events.
Perry said most safety concerns during weekends like this involve alcohol and traffic violations.
“Meetings are held with key stakeholders to ensure that we are doing everything we can to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for all visitor’s and community members,” Perry said.
Communication with safety officials is key in creating a safe environment during busy weekends, Perry said.
Safety and security information can be found on the UI Public Safety and Security website at https://www.uidaho.edu/infrastructure/pss.
To best hear about any safety issues that could arise this weekend, Perry said he encourages students to ensure their contact information is updated in the VandalAlert system as it is the fastest way to send information in an emergency. Students, faculty and staff can check their information on VandalWeb.
Hailey Stewart can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @Hailey_ann97