Evanston campus building access is changing: What you need to know

Northwestern will launch new security measures this week ahead of many students returning to campus this fall. Effective Thursday, Aug. 31, Wildcards must be used to access Evanston campus buildings during specified hours.

The Department of Safety and Security, Facilities and the Office of the Provost have partnered on an effort to modify access to buildings on the Evanston campus.

Northwestern Now has gathered key information, resources and a brief Q&A to provide a better understanding of the changes to come, who’s affected and what to do if you have a problem.

To start, make sure you’re carrying your Wildcard with you at all times so you’ll be able to get to the places you need to go all day every day, including nights and weekends.

Please also check the expiration date on your Wildcard. If your Wildcard is expired, schedule a renewal appointment with the Wildcard Office to minimize a disruption in access.

Weekday access 

• Main entrances to campus buildings will remain open to the public from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, perimeter doors will be secured. Doors with existing card readers remain accessible with a valid Wildcard from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• From 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., electronically controlled doors, including main entrances, will be accessible only with a valid Wildcard.
• After 11 p.m., entry will be limited to those with specific authorization.

Weekend access

• Electronically controlled doors, including main entrances, will be accessible from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. with a valid Wildcard.
• After 11 p.m., access will be limited to those with specific authorization.

“This change aims to ensure a safe and secure environment while still providing ample opportunities for all community members to utilize our facilities effectively,” said Luke Figora, Northwestern’s vice president for operations. 

Does this affect every Evanston campus building?

No. At this time, some facilities on the Evanston campus will not transition to the same standard building hours detailed above. See the section titled “Buildings with Alternate Access Protocols” on the Building Access page.

What about Chicago campus facilities?

Northwestern’s Chicago campus buildings operate on specific schedules. A valid Wildcard or security check-in generally is required for entry. On-site security staff is present for many buildings. For more information, see the “Chicago” section on the Building Access page.

How do these changes impact ADA accessibility?

All public-facing administrative and academic buildings have options for ADA accessible entrances with exterior push plates. If the main entrance of a building is not ADA accessible, an additional ADA accessible entrance will remain open and unlocked during standard building hours from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Additional exterior ADA accessible doors allow access with a valid Wildcard if needed. For more information, see the “Accessibility” section on the Building Access page.

Can I hold the door open for the person coming in after me?

Northwestern community members can enter buildings through perimeter doors by using their Wildcards. Regardless of the time of day, everyone should remain vigilant when entering buildings through secured doors. Perimeter doors should never be propped open. Regardless of the time of day, both main and perimeter doors may be used to exit all buildings. 

What should I do if my Wildcard does not work to access a building?

If you need building-specific authorization, please contact your program director or supervisor. The Wildcard Office does not grant authorization to access a specific building. The “FAQ” section of the Building Access page provides additional information and resources about how to troubleshoot Wildcard issues.