8/30/23 12:38pm
The gas leak has been capped, so there is no longer any immediate danger. However, gas will be turned off to various campus buildings throughout the day as part of the repair process.

Rhoades-Robinson and Zeis are now clear for entry.
The 12:30 p.m. classes will remain canceled, and 2 p.m. classes will be held in these buildings as scheduled. In addition, all residence halls have been cleared and can be entered as well.

Brown Hall will remain open for dining. Other dining outlets may be impacted due to complications surrounding repair of the gas line.
Safety concerns should be directed to University Police at 828.232.5000 or x5000 if dialing from a campus phone.
Additional updates will be provided as needed.

Sincerely,
Kimberly van Noort
Interim Chancellor

Dear Campus Community,

A gas line was struck at approximately 11 a.m. this morning near Brown Hall, and we have evacuated several campus buildings: Rhoades-Robinson, Zeis, and parts of the Woods community.

Efforts are underway to repair the damage as quickly as possible.

All 12:30 p.m. classes in Rhoades-Robinson and Zeis are being canceled. Updates about additional classes will be forthcoming, if needed.

Displaced students, faculty, and staff are free to use the Student Recreation Center (SRC). 

We are working to mobilize meal options, and more details will be provided soon.

Updates will be shared via campus email and Bulldog Alert, as well as the University social media accounts for X (formerly known as Twitter) and Facebook.

Sincerely,

Kimberly van Noort

Interim Chancellor