The University District Safety Initiative (UDSI) will take effect Oct. 15, one day before Queen’s Homecoming celebrations begin.
The initiative will remain in effect from midnight on Oct. 15 until noon on Nov. 1. During this period, Kingston Police and City of Kingston bylaw enforcement officer will have an enhanced presence in the University District, according to an Oct. 6 news release.
Queen’s Homecoming is scheduled for Oct. 16-18, followed by unofficial FOCO — also known as fake homecoming — celebrations the following weekend and Halloween weekend afterwards. The UDSI is a partnership between the City, Kingston Police, and Queen’s aimed at addressing safety in the University District.
“We want everyone returning to Kingston for Homecoming to have a memorable and positive experience,” said Kyle Compeau, director of licensing and enforcement at the City, in the release. “Watching out for one another, respecting the community and avoiding unsafe or disruptive behaviour helps ensure the weekend is enjoyable.”
Individuals found committing offences under the Nuisance Party Bylaw may receive a Part I Court Summons or an Administrative Monetary Penalty (AMP), a financial penalty issued for municipal bylaw violations.
Under the City’s AMP system, hosting, conducting, or sponsoring a nuisance party carries a $2,000 penalty. Failing to comply with an order to leave a premises or using a closed highway each carry a $500 penalty, while failing to comply with park signs carries a $200 penalty. Noise bylaw offences carry penalties ranging from $100 to $200.
Beyond municipal penalties, Queen’s students may also face disciplinary action from the University for offences committed during the UDSI period.
According to the City, students issued a Part I summons have their names entered into a public record, which is shared with Queen’s. The University reviews each case to determine whether the student’s actions violated its Student Code of Conduct.
As part of the UDSI, Gord Edgar Downie Pier and Breakwater Park beach will close nightly from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. across three weekends: Oct. 16-18, Oct. 23-25, and Oct. 30 to Nov. 1.
The City said the closures are intended to protect community members, citing the safety risk posed by large unsanctioned gatherings in the area.
Additional on-street parking restrictions will also be in place from midnight Oct. 16 until noon Oct. 18 and again from Oct. 23 to 25.
The City is also warning students, alumni, residents, and visitors about ongoing construction on Princess Street as part of the Williamsville Renewal project. It asked people to avoid construction sites and large street parties that could block other roads.
Tags
FOCO, Halloweekend, Homecoming, University District Safety Initiative
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