New police precinct opens on the Strip

April 17, 2023

Tamika Alexander,

The University of Alabama Police Department has opened a permanent new substation along the Strip just off the UA campus. The new police precinct is a partnership between the Tuscaloosa Police Department and UAPD.

It is located at 600 University Blvd. Suite C. between Chipotle and Taco Bell.

UAPD Capt. Chad Stephens said the new location offers a police presence on the Strip 24/7.

UAPD and TPD have worked in cooperation for years in areas where city jurisdiction borders campus, including the Strip.

In addition to routine patrols, both agencies are dedicating officers to a “Strip Detail” – additional officers who will patrol the Strip area, with a special emphasis on peak hours of business and activity, which can sometimes lead to an increase in crime along the Strip.

“Anything can happen anytime, anywhere,” said Stephens. We are doing everything we can to keep this area, which is a vibrant part of the city, the safest it can.”

“The safety and well-being of our students and our community is our top priority,” said UA President Stuart R. Bell. “We are grateful for a close working partnership with our city colleagues to identify ways to continually enhance and augment safety strategies in the jointly patrolled areas, especially the Strip, and throughout our community.”

Bell, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox and other members of the campus and city meet regularly to talk about student and community safety.

These meetings have already resulted in enhancements on and near the Strip, including improved lighting and additional security cameras. Other initiatives to improve pedestrian access, security and safety are in the planning stages.

“The city of Tuscaloosa’s most essential service is public safety. Knowing that tens of thousands of students, faculty, staff and guests of the University of Alabama are at the heart of our central city, the partnership with UAPD is critical,” said Maddox. “Our partnership is strong, and we will continue to work together to ensure the campus and community is safe.