Division of Student Affairs

header image

Drive safely, Cougs!

Once a Coug, always a Coug…you are the heart of our WSU family.

Whether you’re traveling from across town, across the state, or across the country, we’re welcoming you this fall with a clear message: Drive safely, Cougs!

Officials throughout the state are taking action to make your journey as safe as possible. The Washington State Legislature just allocated $400,000 for safety improvements to State Route 26 and U.S. Highway 195—key routes for traveling to and from the WSU Pullman campus. The safety improvement funding will support implementation of the following:

  • Online traveler information. Two new weather information systems along State Route 26 will show real-time road conditions—including a camera view—at wsdot.wa.gov.
  • Sign that warns of conditions ahead. A permanently installed, variable-message sign will operate in all weather conditions, including heavy snow.
  • Knowledge to help you at the wheel. An ongoing driver awareness campaign by the Palouse Regional Transportation Planning Organization may add training programs for drivers: driving in bad weather, installing chains, and more.

Last spring, WSU launched a new Driver Safety Committee to work with partners statewide to help students safely travel to and from WSU Pullman. We are thankful for our partners from the Washington State Department of Transportation, Washington State Patrol, Palouse Regional Transportation Planning Organization, Pullman Police Department, and the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. We all want to remind you of important road safety tips:

    • Buckle up.
    • Never pass unless you’re absolutely certain that it’s safe.
    • Never text or talk on your phone while driving.
    • If you’re drowsy, pull over and nap.
    • Don’t speed.
    • Don’t get distracted by friends or snacks.
    • Never, ever drive under the influence.

Before you drive, make a plan. Allow time to avoid inclement weather, heavy traffic, and late-night hours. Know in advance how you are going to reach your destination safely.

Together, we will continue to make safety a priority. It’s our privilege to welcome you home to WSU.

Sincerely,

Mary Jo Gonzales, vice president, Student Affairs
Jordan Frost, ASWSU president
Tyler O’Brien, ASWSU director of health and safety
Shane Reynolds, president, Graduate and Professional Students Association