Student move-in brings traffic congestion, changes

The numerous construction projects still in progress around campus are making the move this month of some 6,700 students into their residence halls a bit more challenging than usual, and university employees and visitors are likely to experience additional traffic congestion and delays during the biggest days of the move-in.

Deliveries to construction sites and campus bus service may be affected temporarily.

“Every year has its challenges,” says University Housing’s Mike Kinderman, “but this year there have been a few more construction-related issues to deal with. We’ve had a lot of cooperation from UW Police, Transportation Services, Physical Plant and others on campus who helped us plan for this move-in, and we expect it to go well.”

The biggest move-in days are Sunday and Monday, Aug. 28 and 29. Ogg Hall opened on Aug. 14, the International Learning Community at Adams Hall began welcoming its residents on Aug. 21, and students who work for University Housing are moving in Thursday, Aug. 25.

Kinderman says employees might want to consider taking the bus to work on Monday, Aug. 29, to avoid the potential traffic hassles. Those who drive to work are asked to avoid the residence hall areas if possible.

Last week, University Housing director Paul Evans and Transportation Services director Lance Lunsway sent a memo to permit holders who park in lots closest to the halls asking them to use other lots on Aug. 25, 28 and 29. The suggested alternatives are areas 36, 45, 60, 62 or 83.

On Aug. 28-29, the move-in traffic routes and street closures will be much the same as in previous years. From 7 a.m.-6 p.m.:

• Lake Street between West Johnson and West Dayton streets will be closed to traffic.
• Observatory Drive from Charter Street to Elm Drive will be restricted primarily to move-in traffic and will be one-way westbound.
• Elm Drive north of Observatory Drive will be one-way northbound, and Willow Drive will be open to one-way traffic westbound to Marsh Lane.

Five portable message signs will aid students and their families in finding their residence halls as they navigate through the construction areas. Pre-move-in messages are warning drivers about the upcoming traffic situation.