Protesters of the installation of surveillance cameras on Beaver Avenue, which would be partially funded by Penn State, rallied outside the Allen Street Gates Friday afternoon.

The protesters included students from the Penn State chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the College Democrats and Young Americans for Freedom (YAF).

They collected signatures for a petition that includes a list of grievances, which will be presented to the State College Borough Council, State College Mayor Bill Welch, State College Police Chief Tom King and Penn State's administration.

The petition says Penn State has no reasonable explanation for assisting with the funding of video surveillance equipment off campus.

"The university can raise tuition 13.5 percent, and they have money to fund cameras?" Jason Waeltz (junior-information sciences and technology) asked.

ACLU member Daniel Leathers (junior-history) said the cost for the surveillance cameras is no more than $20,000. The university would fund $10,000 of that, he said.

The use of surveillance cameras was proposed after riots in the area led to pressure from community groups.

In previous interviews with The Daily Collegian, Police Chief King said he would recommend the instillation of cameras if the cost is reasonable. He said he believes the cameras will protect students and create a safer living environment.

A vote on the use of cameras could take place as early as December.

Some protesters said the cameras might record areas of private property.

"This is a serious violation of the Fourth Amendment," said Jim Reardon (senior-management), a YAF member.

College Democrats President Alicia Turner said the university administration could be overstepping its boundaries.

"It is so broad to what they say they can do; when does it go too far?" she said.