UTPD, APD Expand West Campus Patrol District with Two Dozen Officers

The University of Texas at Austin has expanded its safety efforts by creating a West Campus Patrol District, where about two dozen UT Police Department officers now patrol permanently in partnership with the Austin Police Department. This initiative, effective August 4, 2025, extends UTPD's patrol boundary from Rio Grande Street to North Lamar Boulevard, covering the neighborhood where many students live. Officers patrol on foot, bicycles, ATVs, and cars, and both UTPD and APD officers undergo cross-training to better understand policing in both university and urban environments. UT President Jim Davis emphasized the importance of this safety focus, especially since most students are new to a big city setting. Community advocates and students have expressed support for the partnership, viewing it as a crucial step to address concerns about repeat offenders and improve overall safety. The collaboration aims to enhance law enforcement visibility and responsiveness, serving as a force multiplier to protect the campus community.