City and Lehigh University officials announced Aug. 26 they are redoubling their integrated policing of the Southside neighborhoods near the campus.

Increased police patrols, additional public cameras and new technologies are already in place or coming on line as the fall semester begins, Mayor Bob Donchez said. Unspoken was the implication the efforts are in reaction to numerous break-ins, thefts and robberies earlier in the year. Donchez reminds the community that many incidents can be avoided if people simply remember to lock the doors of their homes and vehicles.

Donchez and Police Chief Mark DiLuzio said 10 new cameras will be installed in areas bordering the campus, while the recently-instituted police foot patrol beats help protect residents and businesses. The new cameras will join 17 already installed throughout the Southside. DiLuzio also told a small crowd of students that there are now extra weekend patrols to help keep them safe as they blow off steam. "We've all been to college, guys and gals," he said knowingly.

The university is adding new cameras as well, and has its own officers on patrol to mirror the city department's efforts. DiLuzio and Lehigh Police Chief Ed Shupp said the university and city cameras share the integrated 911 system, making law enforcement procedures and emergency response highly collaborative.

Interim President Kevin Clayton also described a new smartphone application already in use by the university, which is designed to monitor individuals traveling alone to ensure they reach their destination unhindered. EmergenSee was put in place two months ago and more than 900 students, staff and faculty have already signed up.

EmercenSee is an application that streams audio, video and GPS information while it's activated, allowing selected contacts to monitor your walk live.

Speakers reiterated the shared commitment to public safety. Donchez said, "A safe Bethlehem allows students to reside here and learn, and a safe Bethlehem allows individuals to raise a family within city limits. Lehigh University police and the City of Bethlehem police have always worked very closely together to ensure the safety of our residents and students.

"This is a true example of a new partnership between the city and Lehigh University."