Dec. 7, 2009

Snowy campus

Photo by Bob Elbert.

Winter parking alternatives

by Erin Rosacker

Winter weather procedures dealing with cancellations, closures and parking have not changed, but staff reductions may impact how quickly snow and ice is removed from campus streets and sidewalks.

Winter weather FAQ

For more information, see Iowa State's winter weather FAQ.

"We have two fewer people than we did last year," said Les Lawson, campus services manager. "With the crews that we have, we'll do the best that we can, but it will take longer than it used to."

If the timing of a snowfall prevents parking lots from being cleared by 7:30 a.m., employees can park at the Iowa State Center (lots A3, A4, B5 and B6) and take the free CyRide Orange route, which runs every five to 10 minutes. Other available parking areas include:

  • Lots 29 and 30, north of Molecular Biology
  • Lot 41, north of the General Services Building

Lawson said facilities planning and management staff will continue to clear snow and ice over the winter break, although some campus units plan to close. Administrators at Beardshear Hall have asked FPM crews to clear only the north doors of the building during that time.

Cancellations and closures

During inclement weather, the ISU web site and campus information center (4-4357) will have up-to-date information on the university's status. Radio and television stations also will be notified of cancellations and closures.

If classes are canceled, but the university is not closed:

  • Offices are open for business as usual
  • Employees who are unable to make it to work need to contact their immediate supervisors
  • Employees may request to make up the time, use vacation time or take leave without pay
  • Staff members covered by collective bargaining agreements should refer to the language in the severe weather portion of the contract

If the university is officially closed:

  • Classes are canceled and university offices are closed
  • Employees working in important operational areas (security, food service, campus services, power plant, for example) need to follow that area's specific procedures
  • Some staff members may elect to work their regular hours despite the closure and with supervisor approval