February 14, 2010

To: The UMBC Community

From: Lynne Schaefer

Subject: Returning to Campus Tomorrow

Dear Colleagues,

As we all prepare to return to campus tomorrow, I want to share some information on what to expect so that you can plan and prepare accordingly.

First, as I’m sure is true in your neighborhoods, mountains of snow are in evidence throughout the campus. This can present challenges in seeing what’s coming, so please exercise caution, and watch out for others as you are driving or walking around campus.

Faculty, Staff and Commuting Students

Most of the main parking lots and the academic side of the loop road have been cleared of snow. You should be able to find parking either in areas you typically look for space, or in the lots around the edges of campus (13, 17, 18, 22). Pathways have been cleared from lots to buildings, but not all paths. Please look for the cleared paths, as these will be the safest routes for you to take.

Handicap Parking

For those members of our community who require accessible parking, your options may be more limited than usual, depending on your particular circumstances. The best options are handicap spaces in Lot 16, the Commons Garage, and upper Lot 10. Remember that you may also park free of charge at any of the meters on upper Lot 10, as long as you have your handicap placard. If possible, you might want to consider arriving early to ensure finding a space that will meet your needs.

Returning Resident Students

Many of the resident student parking areas remain snow-filled and not accessible for parking. A large number of student vehicles have not yet been dug out from the storms. We will be working over the course of this week to assist in moving these vehicles out, so that the lots can be cleared. In the meantime, resident students returning to campus should consider parking in Lots 13, 17 and 18. The satellite lot at South Campus is also available. Please do not park in neighborhoods adjacent to campus – those residents are already severely challenged to find parking near their homes in these conditions, and I hope you will agree that as good neighbors we shouldn’t make it worse for them.

Areas to Avoid

The Walker Garage is not in good shape yet, and it will take the next couple of days of moving cars out and clearing snow to make it available for parking. The same is true for Lots 4 and 5, the student lots. We apologize for this inconvenience, and ask that you bear with us while we continue to clear the remainder of the snow.

Please be careful out there. I urge you to dress for snowy conditions, and exercise care. I look forward to seeing everyone back on campus.