University District Safety Initiative activating Oct. 15: a reminder to celebrate Queen’s Homecoming safely and responsibly

Queen’s University is celebrating Homecoming on Oct. 16–18, and the City extends a warm welcome to alumni visiting the campus and the community. The City is also reminding students, alumni and visitors that the University District Safety Initiative (UDSI) will be in effect from Oct. 15 to Nov. 1. 

As Homecoming celebrations get underway on campus and across Kingston, please plan ahead, celebrate responsibly and help keep the community safe. 

Explore Homecoming events 

A range of events will take place throughout the weekend at venues on and off campus. Visit the Queen’s University website for the complete schedule of alumni reunion dinners, open houses and other Homecoming activities. 

University District Safety Initiative 

The University District Safety Initiative is a partnership between the City of Kingston, Kingston Police and Queen's University. It will be in effect from Thursday, Oct. 15 at 12 a.m. to Sunday, Nov. 1 at 12 p.m. 

“We want everyone returning to Kingston for Homecoming to have a memorable and positive experience,” said Kyle Compeau, Director, Licensing & Enforcement at the City of Kingston. “Watching out for one another, respecting the community and avoiding unsafe or disruptive behaviour helps ensure the weekend is enjoyable for students, alumni, residents and emergency responders alike.” 

During the UDSI period, City Bylaw Enforcement Officers and Kingston Police will have an enhanced presence in the University District. Individuals found committing offences under the Nuisance Party Bylaw may receive a Part I Court Summons or an Administrative Monetary Penalty (AMP). 

Under section 434.1 of the Municipal Act, AMPs allow certain penalties under the City’s Nuisance Party and Noise Bylaws to be issued and resolved directly through the City: 

• Host, conduct or sponsor a nuisance party: $2,000
• Fail to comply with an order to leave premises: $500
• Use a closed highway: $500
• Noise bylaw offences – Various: $100-$200
• Fail to comply with signs (Parks): $200 

Gord Edgar Downie Pier and Breakwater Park beach closed on some nights for public safety 

As part of the UDSI, Gord Edgar Downie Pier and Breakwater Park beach will be closed to the public nightly from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. on the following dates: 

• Oct. 16 to Oct. 18
• Oct. 23 to Oct. 25
• Oct. 30 to Nov. 1 

The decision to close the park during these times is to ensure the safety of community members in the University District, as large unsanctioned gatherings in this area pose a major safety risk. 

Road construction and parking restrictions  

With road construction taking place on Princess St. as part of the Williamsville Renewal project, the City reminds students, alumni, residents and visitors to avoid construction sites and participating large street parties that may block other roads. Use Municipal511 to stay up to date on road closures. 

Additional on-street parking restrictions are also in effect from Oct. 16 at 12 a.m. to Oct. 18 at 12 p.m., and from Oct. 23 at 12 a.m. to Oct. 25 at 12 p.m. 

The following streets will have parking banned on both sides: 

• Aberdeen Street from Johnson Street to Earl Street
• William Street from University Avenue to Division Street
• Earl Street from University Avenue to Division Street
• Division Street from Johnson Street to Earl Street, and from Clergy Street to Union Street.
• Clergy Street at Division Street, alongside Dupuis Hall

Learn more about UDSI on our University District Safety Initiative webpage.