The decision to close the University from December 20 through December 28 provides the University an opportunity to reduce energy use during what often is a period of below freezing temperatures.

To accomplish this goal, the heating will be reduced in most buildings on campus. In addition, employees are asked to turn off all energy-consuming devices including computers, monitors, printers, chargers, and copiers prior to leaving campus for break.

Employees who must work during this period should expect that it will be cooler than normal inside most buildings and plan to dress accordingly. Employees should not bring portable space heaters to campus. Portable space heaters are one of the most common sources of building fires, and they use a tremendous quantity of energy for the amount of heat they generate. If employees must be in buildings during this period, they are asked to make certain lights and other energy-consuming devices are off when they leave.

If special public events are scheduled to take place during this time, please make sure Facilities Management is notified via the work request desk system prior to December 17 so appropriate space conditioning can be provided. If other special needs exist, please contact the work request desk at ext. 6864.

No utilities will be completely shut off to any area, so damage from freezing should not be a concern. Likewise, the temperature adjustments should have no impact on personal computer operations.

During the holiday season campus snow removal/ice management will be maintained to an “as needed” basis.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Changes in parking regulations will go into effect January 5, 2009.

To accommodate the shift of nearly 100 staff members from various campus locations to positions in the Harre Union and to provide flexibility in providing parking for guests who will be attending events in the building, Lot 14 (south of the softball field) will be designated for use only by staff and University visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Lot 13 (north of the Harre Union) is reserved 24/7 for staff and a limited number of University vehicles, such as those used by Dining Services catering.

Freshman with vehicles registered on campus will now be assigned to park in designated areas on the upper levels of the Northeast Parking Ramp. The lower levels of the Parking Ramp will continue to be available to any member of the campus community with a valid vehicle registration.