The Dade City Police Department wanted a more dynamic Web site, and web design students at Saint Leo University needed real life experience.
It was a perfect match.
Last week the department launched its new site full of links, photos and even an Amber Alert news crawl.
"We wanted an interactive Web site (www.dadecitypolice.com) that could provide different types of information to our residents," Police Chief Ray Velboom said.
Each officer has a photo and contact information, organized by division. The site also provides residents with a mechanism to file a complaint or commend a police officer.
Residents can download forms to request extra patrols while they're on vacation, or they can sign up to receive news alerts on their mobile phones.
"It's just more user-friendly," Velboom said.
Team leader Erick Armstrong, who finished his degree requirements this semester, said the students spent at least 200 hours on the project.
"This was an opportunity to deal with a real world client who has specific needs and deadlines," professor Bryan Reagan said.
And just like in the real world, the client threw them a curve ball at the last minute: moving the deadline up by 10 days. The class delivered, finishing the project before they left for winter vacation.
"It's a great partnership," Velboom said. "It's a resume builder for the students. We got a great Web site, and the price was right."
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