The days of throwing fresh racks of Collegians in the elevator appear to be numbered at Penn State. The university announced this weekend its plans to install approximately 450 Internet protocol-based video surveillance cameras in 60 residence halls and commons areas. The cameras will monitor ground-floor entrance lobbies, exit stairwells, elevators, and commons service desks.

“The safety and security of our residents is a top priority and we are excited to move ahead with this important project,” said Joel Weidner, director of information technology and marketing in the office of auxiliary and business services. “We have had card access at our residence hall entrances for years and the new video system will provide additional safeguards that will enhance the security of our residential communities.”

The $1.4 million project is expected to begin next month and be completed by May 2014. Weidner said that the cameras will mainly be used for investigations (video data will be stored for 30 days) rather than active monitoring.