What happens to be a major change in over four decades, the police officers of Cornell University will soon be donning a brand new designed uniform.

The officers will begin wearing new uniforms in early 2013, marking the first significant change in their official attire in 42 years.

Nearly three years in the making, the new look replaces the current nickel-gray shirt with a black uniform shirt with ventilated side panels. The shirt complements the modern multi-pocketed black cargo pants the department switched to in 2010, replacing the department's traditional navy blue polyester dress trousers.

The new pants have been well received by the officers because of their durability and storage capabilities, including multiple pockets for essential items.

"The decision to change our uniforms came when our suppliers advised us they were phasing out our current uniform," said Chief Kathy Zoner.

"We also learned that our officers were in favor of a new look, and wanted to find a material that would provide them comfort and meet the seasonal extremes experienced in Ithaca."

Zoner charged a uniform committee with identifying a new shirt color and material that maintained a professional appearance and provided more comfort and functionality.

Zoner said that she knows how any change in their attire would also impact the Cornell Community. Hence, inputs were taken from every possible member of the community.

In July of this year, she began discussing the potential change in various student, staff and faculty venues and solicited feedback through a small, informal survey of community members. The feedback indicated that the Cornell community values the dark-colored professional-looking uniform shirt traditional to many police departments.

The uniform committee suggestions, survey results and fit tests were all incorporated into the selection of a more functional shirt, including not just ventilated panels, but also additional storage pockets and radio microphone holders.

Faculty, staff and students will be able to see Cornell's 50 sworn law enforcement officers wearing the new uniforms early next year.

"My hope is to give our officers a more modern, professional look in line with their dedicated service to the Cornell community," said Zoner.

"While we are changing what we wear, our focus remains on the safety and security of everyone on campus."