Communications

 

April 14, 2023

More April Updates for University Village

Greetings,

Please find some helpful University Village community related updates below.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
The road paving project at the entrance of the community has been scheduled for Friday, April 28th, weather permitting.  Please note that this will reduce the road to one lane and will increase the time it takes to enter and exit the community.  The project is expected to be completed in one day.

PLEASE KEEP OFF THE GRASS
The grass around the community will be getting some much needed attention in the coming weeks to try to establish healthy growth.  The soccer field which will  not be usable this summer because it takes several seasons for the grass roots to be established enough to handle high activity.  Please do not walk on the grass.  It is everyone’s responsibility to keep the walkways clear of toys, bikes and personal items.  

ROCKS
As we approach a school vacation time for area children, please ask them not to remove the rocks from around the buildings.  We are finding piles of these rocks around the playground, on bike storage roofs, and in the grass throughout the village.  

This also seems like a relevant time to remind folks about some summer time items that are not permitted in the community.  
•    No outdoor grills with open flames 
•    No swimming pools of any size
•    No hanging swings or permanent hammocks

PESTS
If you notice a beehive or other nest in the community, please report the location to the Facilities Service Center at 413-545-0812.  UMass Pest Control will respond as soon as possible. 

RECYCLING IS AN EXPECTATION  
Cardboard boxes are not to be thrown in the dumpster; but rather broken down and placed into the cardboard containers available in each trash area. Thank you for helping to reduce the trash going into our landfills.

NEW TO THE VILLAGE?
Check out our website for previous updates that have been shared with the community under the Communications menu.

KEY TO ELECTRICAL BOX
Lastly, not everyone received a key to their electrical breaker box upon moving in to their apartment. If you do not have this key, please fill out this form and we will deliver one to you.  Each household should have one key, to be kept in a safe place out of reach of children.

Enjoy the warmer weather and the long weekend!

April 3, 2023

April Updates for University Village

Greetings,

I am writing to share some important community related information to be aware of in the coming weeks in University Village.

Protect the Grass
As the snow melts and the ground softens, it is important that we all walk on the designated walkways throughout the community and stay off the areas where grass needs to grow. Signage will be going up in these vulnerable areas to remind folks to keep off these areas.  Please remind family members of all ages about this expectation and to keep the walkways clear of personal items so pedestrians can travel safely around the community.

Electric Vehicle Charging Now Available
The first electric vehicle charging station, located in parking lot B, near the Community Center is now available for use. This station is able to charge two vehicles at a time, so a second parking spot will be dedicated for this charger in the near future. For more information about how to use this station or join the UMass EV Charging Club, please visit the Transportation Services website.  Only vehicles charging at the station should park in these two designated charging spaces.

Construction Advisory
Paving of the roadway from Building A to North Pleasant Street will be reduced to one lane of traffic while paving work is completed.  This work is scheduled for the week of April 10. The finalized date will be shared when confirmed.

  • Allow yourself extra time to enter/exit the community while this work is being done.
  • Look for and follow the instructions from safety personnel as you walk or drive this area.
  • With asphalt paving comes an odor that may be unpleasant to some. We suggest keeping your windows and doors shut to avoid the odor.
Food Pantry Assistance
Please visit the Amherst Survival Center for information about their food pantry, which includes delivery to University Village.

 

March 2, 2023

Dear Resident,

It was a pleasure to meet many of you and your families during the recent University Village Health and Safety inspections. 

I am writing to provide you with some information about Saturday, March 4.  March 4 is the Saturday prior to the University’s spring break.  On this date, students have traditionally gathered at apartment complexes in North Amherst including Townhouses and Hobart Lane.  This is not a planned or university sanctioned event.  The university and the town of Amherst work closely together to mitigate the impacts of this tradition including additional staffing, strong communication strategies, and modifications of guest policies on campus.

Although we don’t anticipate significant impact of this tradition on the University Village community, I did want to provide you information on how to report any concerns that you may experience.  These concerns could include seeing people climbing over the fence into the University Village property, cars that do not belong to residents parking in the University Village lots, or disorderly conduct.  If you witness any of these or other concerns, please contact the University of Massachusetts Police Department at (413) 545-3111 so they can be addressed. 

Best Wishes,
Jean MacKimmie
Director of Residence Education

In addition to the above, wanted to share a couple of reminders with the University Village community:

When completing the recent UV Health and Safety inspections, I did notice that a few apartments have many items on and around their front and rear entrances.  Just as a reminder, the following is expected as outlined in the University Village Policies. 

“Residents are expected to keep the front and rear of their apartment tidy.  Anything seeming to create a hazard or unsightly appearance will be addressed by Residential Life, including, but not limited to, bicycles, garbage, and children’s toys.  The residents shall not store, maintain keep or otherwise place any items, including, but not limited to, automobile parts, hazardous chemicals, cardboard boxes, recyclable materials, garbage, indoor furniture, and other items not designated to be outdoors on the porches, exterior grounds, common areas, and entrance ways of the building, expect as otherwise specifically authorized by Residential Life staff.  Each block of apartments provides a shared covered bike storage area for resident use.”

I have heard concerns from a couple of residents about neighbors with approved dogs walking the dogs in the children’s play areas resulting in animal waste in the areas where the children play.  These residents respectfully request that dog owners refrain from having their dogs relieve themselves in these areas.  And, of course, it is expected that dog owners pick up and dispose of their animal’s excrement. 

March 1, 2023

University Village Snow Removal THURSDAY 3/2

Greetings,

Snow removal from the parking lots within University Village will begin tomorrow, Thursday, March 2 in the early morning.
 
IF YOU HAVE A CAR PARKED AT UNIVERSITY VILLAGE, please move your vehicle out of the parking lot before 7am on Thursday, March 2.  
 
You can park your vehicle along the community road, (NOT North Pleasant Street) using the side traveling INTO the village.  All vehicles need to park on the same side of the road facing the back of the property, so that your passenger side door is facing Puffton Village next door.  See map.  Cars that are not moved will impede the snow removal process and it will become the vehicle owner's responsibility to clear the surrounding snow.



Reduce your travel speed when there is only one travel lane.  
 
Additional parking space is available in Purple Lot 44 (located behind the School of Education/Furcolo Hall). Vehicles parked in this lot will need to be moved back to University Village no later than 7:00am Friday, March 3.  If you park in Lot 44, be sure to display your University Village parking permit to avoid being ticketed or towed.
 
Thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation during the snow removal process tomorrow.

February 15, 2023

Recycling Expectations at University Village

Greetings,

I’m writing today to remind all University Village residents of an important UMass expectation around waste-reduction and recycling, and to share some helpful resources.  I also ask for your input on how we can best support your community’s recycling efforts.
 
Recycling is an expectation of the entire UMass community.
Both Residential Life and Waste Management staff have observed poor recycling participation by the University Village residents. We want to help your community recycle as well as our other residential communities on campus do.
 
Why recycle?
Recycling not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions by keeping useful materials out of landfills, but it also reduces the need for new resource extraction.  The benefits are fewer methane emissions and less need for virgin materials.

How to recycle? 
It’s as easy as 1. 2. 3…

  1. Is it recyclable? Print this graphic and tape onto your recycling bin. There will also be copies in the Community Center.
  2. Put recyclable items in the blue recycling bin provided in your apartment
  3. Bring to your nearest waste enclosure
  • Cardboard boxes should be flattened/folded and placed INSIDE the brown cardboard bins
  • All other recyclables (paper, bottles, cans, tubs & jars) go INSIDE the blue bins
  • IMPORTANT – no plastic bags in the recycling/do not bag recyclables 
  • Not recyclable? Put everything else in one of the large TRASH ONLY dumpsters

Need more info? 

View this UMass Waste Guidelines ebook
Play the UMass waste sort game
Visit the SustainableUMass website

Tell us what you need!
Complete this survey so we can support you and your family to recycle in your community.

More to come!Textile recycling box at the community center.

  • A process for requesting bulky waste item pickup (Tip: These cannot be left at waste enclosures)
  • Your ideas for recycling education, activities, etc. at University Village
  • Campus Race to Zero Waste – an annual college and university waste-diversion competition 

Laurie Simmons
Sustainability Coordinator
Residential Life / Facilities & Campus Services

 

February 3, 2023

University Village Mailboxes 

Greetings,

In the coming days you will notice a slight shift in your USPS mailbox location within the unit of mailboxes at University Village. A slight adjustment to the order of placement is necessary to resituate the ADA units in A building within reach while seated in a wheelchair.

USPS will re-label each mailbox unit, move the corresponding locks and any existing mail to the new location. Your current key will work in your new assigned box. 

If you have trouble accessing your new mailbox, please contact the post office at 413-549-0523.  They are open Mon – Fri 9:00am – 5:30pm and Sat. 9:30am - 2:00pm.

 

January 3, 2023

Notice: No Power 1/4/23 between 9a-1p

The University Village construction project must perform an unexpected power interruption that will affect all apartments in Buildings H, G and F ONLY tomorrow, January 4, between 9am – 1pm.

This power shutdown is necessary to make a repair to a damaged electrical switch.  We apologize for the unexpected inconvenience.   Here is what you need to know.

What services will be unavailable during the time of the power outage?

  • Electricity
  • WiFi/Network Connectivity
  • Hot Water
  • Heat/Cooling system

Night Before/Morning Before Outage

  • Charge all electronic devices
  • Raise the heat temperature in your apartment – tomorrow’s weather will be in the 50s but this will assist with maintaining a comfortable temperature in your space.
  • Take a shower/bath
  • Save and close any work on your computer
  • Unplug computers, TVs, and other sensitive electronics from their power source.
  • Unplug power strips from power source

During the Outage

  • The Community Center will not be impacted by the power interruption and you are able to use the Community Center during the outage
  • Avoid opening the refrigerator/freezer to keep the contents cold
  • You may still run cold water and flush toilets
  • Cellular service will still be available

After the Outage

  • Confirm that power was restored to your refrigerator
  • Confirm that all mini-split wall units have power and are reset to the desired temperature. 
  • Confirm that your wifi connectivity has restored. There may be a slight delay immediately following the power coming back on. 
  • Contact the Facilities Service Center at 413.545.0812 if power to any outlets or appliances is not restored
  • Allow up to 2 hours for the hot water heater to bring the hot water to temperature before using hot water for showers or laundry

University staff will need to enter your apartment to ensure your heating system is back on and running and will begin door knocks to enter as soon as the power has been restored. If you are home and can confirm that your mini-split is running, we will not need to enter.  If you are not home, staff will be entering apartments between 1pm-3pm. 

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

 

November 15, 2022

University Village Community Updates

Greetings University Village Resident,

With the first winter weather alert on the horizon, I have some important information to help you prepare for getting around University Village this winter season.
 
It is helpful to note that there are two different types of winter weather responses you may experience, and that they are based on the amount of snow accumulation.
 
The first type of storm is when the predicted snow is a dusting to 2 inches. T he response you can expect will be pre-storm preparations, rather than cleanup.  To prevent the snow/ ice from sticking to surfaces, a pre-treatment of walkways, parking lots and apartment steps/ramps will be spread onto surfaces using a granular ice melt or mixture of liquid and salt.  Snow removal in the parking lot is not performed when accumulations are this low.

The second type is plowable snowstorm, when there are 2+ inches.  In these cases, the University is responsible for the snow removal on the roadways, walkways, apartment steps and accessible ramps within the community.
 
Beginning today, each apartment will be issued a snow shovel that should remain in the apartment, even after moving out. We recognize that people may need to safely leave their apartment before snow removal is complete, so we hope this shovel will help your family address your needs at your own steps and around your vehicle until we arrive.  Please do not walk on snow filled steps.  This will pack it down and make it harder to remove and will likely turn to ice.  A snow response on our residential campus is massive and impacted by numerous factors outside of our control. Residents will be contacted by email to their UMass email accounts with updates and instructions for snow removal expectations, such as vehicle movement from parking lots.
 
Around the community you will also find yellow bins placed near the parking areas filled with an ice melt substance for your use. Only use the ice melt the University provides. Other products could ruin the concrete.You will need to bring your own container to collect this material for use on your own steps or any icy spots you come across along the way.  Please report icy/hazardous conditions immediately to the Facilities Service Center at 413-545-6401 for response. 
 
Residents will need to remove all outdoor toys and personal items from your grassy areas/walkways and apartment steps to allow snow removal equipment safe access to all walkways/stairs.  Please remember that the bike storage area is for bike storage only and needs to remain safely accessible for bicycle use.
 

If you have any questions, please reach out to me directly.

Thank you,

Sarah Rastallis
Operational Services
UMass Amherst
srastall@umass.edu

November 15, 2022

Community Center now open!

Dear University Village Resident,

I hope this email finds you and your family well.  We are excited to announce that the University Village Community Center is now open for use!  We appreciate your patience as we waited for the final work on the center to be completed and the card access to be installed. 

The main doors of the Community Center will remain locked.  University Village residents over the age of 18 will be able to access the center using their university ID card between the hours of 7:00am and 11:59pm daily.  Students may request a NENS (courtesy account for non-employees, non-students) account and UCard for members of their household over the age of 18 by contacting Amy Parker, Residential Life Assignments Office, living@umass.edu.

University Village community members may now make reservations for the multi-purpose/kitchen space to host community events.  To submit a reservation request, please complete this google form.  There is no cost for reserving the multi-purpose room.

University Village Community Center Use Guidelines are available below. 
Best Wishes,

Jean Ahlstrand MacKimmie
Director of Residence Education
 
University of Massachusetts Amherst - Residential Life
University Village Community Center Use Guidelines
(effective 11/14/2022)

The University Village Community Center was designed to provide a community living space for residents of the University Village family housing community. Visitors to the Community Center are expected to adhere to established center policies, University regulations, the Student Code of Conduct and University Village policy, as well as federal, state and local regulations and policies at all times while in the facility regardless of activity. Persons not in accordance with these policies will be asked to leave the Community Center. 

Community Center Access
Residents of the University Village community over the age of 18 and authorized members of the university community will be provided with card access to the University Village Community Center.  Residents will have card access daily from 7:00am – 11:59pm daily. No one is permitted in the Community Center between 12:00am – 7:00am. Minors are not allowed in the community center unless accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 who resides in the community. Residents are expected to follow set Max Occupancy limitations. The Community Center follows all university quiet hour policies.

Scheduled Events
All scheduled events, and individuals attending, are expected to adhere to university established policies. Residential Life reserves the right to postpone or cancel events not in compliance with policy. It is the responsibility of the person or department requesting use of the Community Center to ensure that events and event attendants follow all applicable regulations. Failure to comply with any policies or guidelines outlined in this document and/or requests by Residential Life staff may result in action by the staff to deny privileges, refer to proper authorities, and/or assess appropriate charges. See “Reserving Community Center Space” section below for how to request to hold a scheduled event.

Animals
Animals are not permitted in the Community Center, except for service animals.

Donations and Collections
The use of collection boxes for items, such as canned goods, clothing, etc., in the Community Center requires advance approval from Residential Life staff.

Emergencies
Residential Life is committed to the safety and security of all persons in the Community Center and has developed appropriate emergency procedures. In the case of an emergency (e.g., fire, inclement weather, violence, bomb threat, etc.), persons in the building are asked to follow the emergency procedure guide and the directives of Residential Life staff and Public Safety personnel. Residential Life follows all local, state, and federal emergency regulations.

Fire Alarms and Drills
Fire alarms and all other emergency equipment are provided for the protection of the public and Community Center visitors. In the event of an emergency that requires evacuation, such as a fire, the emergency system will be activated and all occupants will be directed to exit the building until the “all clear” is given by Public Safety personnel. Tampering with or misuse of emergency equipment is strictly prohibited and punishable by law. For information about what to do during a fire alarm, see https://ehs.umass.edu/fire-safety-general.

Food and Beverage
The use of alcohol is not allowed in any university communal space, including the University Village Community Center, regardless of age. All events held in the University Village Community Center are expected to follow UMass Environmental Health and Safety requirements for Food Safety:  Information about Food Waivers and Food Registration can be found here.

Lost and Found
Items of significant monetary value that are found in the Community Center will be immediately turned over to the University of Massachusetts Police Department. Other items will be maintained in the staff office and will be discarded after two (2) weeks from the date of receipt. Any item in the Lost and Found must be picked up by the owner.

Posting Policy
Residential Life will designate a bulletin board location for the posting of materials to advertise registered events for the University community. Postings should not exceed 22" x 18" and are limited to one per activity or event. Postings can be dropped off at the Community Center staff office; all materials must be approved by the staff. The Residential Life staff will be responsible for posting the material in the designated locations. Advertising can be posted for up to 14 days. Thereafter, it may be removed by Residential Life staff. Moreover, designated locations will be cleaned of materials from time to time. In order to get approval, all of the following must apply: 1) the event must be open to all students and 2) the event must be sponsored by a registered student organization or University department, and the sponsor’s name must be on the publicity materials. No postings of any kind are permitted on walls, painted surfaces, windows, doors, floors, bricks, bathroom stalls, or railings.

Reserving Community Center Space
The primary purpose of the Community Center is to support the University Village community. The Common Area of the Community Center is not available for reservation. The multi-purpose/kitchen space is available for reservation; reservation requests must be made at least one week in advance of the event, preferably two weeks in advance.   Reservations can be made by completing the following google form: https://forms.gle/Mo7g5cDwA1wbaQNp9 .  Residential Life staff will review and process requests during university business hours and will confirm your reservation with you via email.
•    Multi-Purpose/Kitchen Space – The event space is available for use by University departments, University-affiliated organizations, and residents of the University Village family housing community. Maximum occupancy for this space is 52 persons. Person reserving the space is responsible for completing the following items at the close of their reservation: 
o    Close and lock all windows in the multi-purpose room
o    Turn off all kitchen appliances including ovens, stovetops, range hoods 
o    Vacuum carpet and sweep floors
o    Wipe up spills and wipe off all surfaces
o    Return all furnishings to their original configuration
o    Wash, dry, and put away any community dishes and utensils used
o    Clean sink, stovetops, and counters
o    Remove all leftover food and drinks from the refrigerator and freezer
o    Close cabinets
o    Remove trash from kitchen and multi-purpose room and bring to the outside dumpster
o    Report any facilities concerns to the Facilities Service Center by calling 413-545-0812

October 28, 2022

Playground Opening Today!

Greetings University Village Resident,

We are excited to share that the playground structure at University Village will be open for use by 3pm today, Friday October 28.

We hope that your families find this area to be welcoming, safe and a fun place to gather and get out some energy.  As you travel to and from the area, please keep in mind to stay off the grass areas that are still developing, as well as the newly placed grass pieces (sod) around the community center.  These grass areas need more time to fully establish roots.

We appreciate your efforts to keep off the grass and sharing this expectation with your family members.

Thank you,
Sarah Rastallis
Operational Services

October 19, 2022

Update to Planned Maintenance at University Village

Dear University Village Resident,

As a follow up to my October 13th email, I would like to update everyone on the status of the apartment maintenance progress as we finish out Building H this week. Now that we have been able to begin our work in the apartments, we have learned some things that will be helpful for you all to know as you plan for our visit.

We are able to complete 3 apartment units each business day and the scheduled start times are 8am, 10am and 1pm. The amount of work needed in each unit varies, so we may run early or behind in our arrival time.  We have started in Building H and will continue to G, F, E, and then C.  With some units still vacant, we expect occupied spaces to be completed in three weeks’ time.  

You will be notified by email, from me, at least 48 hours in advance of the visit so you can prepare.  Below is a sample template of that email so you have an advance look at what is expected.  We are also in the process of completing our Frequently Asked Questions generated from our presentation on September 28th.  We will send the link to residents as soon as we have it completed.

Finally, we have arranged for a staff member from the project to be onsite and available in the community center next week on Monday, October 24 from 2pm – 4pm.  If you have specific questions related to your apartment, please drop by during that window or reply to this email and I will triage to the correct person to get an answer for you.  

Thank you and I hope to get to meet you all in the coming weeks.

Sarah Rastallis
Operational Services 
________________________________________
SAMPLE EMAIL
Dear Resident of Apartment ______, 

Your apartment is scheduled for required maintenance on [date and time]. This work will include important electrical updates, kitchen sink drain repair, all window screen adjustments, appliance inspections and hot water temperature readings.
 
The work is expected to take 2-3 hours to complete and will require the power to your apartment to be turned off while the work is being done. You are not required to be home during this time and all maintenance staff will be escorted by a University official in this circumstance.
 
To prepare for this visit, please do the following before arrival:
•     Notify me by return email ONLY if no one will be home during this scheduled time.  Otherwise it is assumed that someone will be home the entire time.
•    Remove all personal items from the cabinet under the kitchen sink.  Staff will need full access to this space to perform their work.
•    Move any items that are placed against any windows throughout the apartment, at least one foot away from the window so staff can easily access and open each window screen.
•    Remove all items from the kitchen sink basin.  Staff will need easy access to the sink drain.
•    Remove items from drawer at base of stove/oven. This drawer should only hold lighter items.  It is not designed to hold heavier pieces of cookware and should not be used to do so.
•    If you have a portable kitchen island, please move it to the living or dining room.  Full kitchen access is needed.
•    You will NOT be able to use your washer/dryer/dishwasher/stove/range during the time of the visit.  Access to these appliances is necessary and the power will be turned off.  Please make sure you do not have any laundry in your washing machine at the time of the visit.  We will          need to run the washer during our visit.
•    Remove all personal items from the kitchen closet.  This space from the drain in the floor all the way to behind the water heater needs to be accessible and free of items.  
•    Remove all items at least two feet away from the electrical breaker box in the living room.  The whole panel to the box will be removed from the wall, so access to the smaller door is not sufficient.  The electrician needs to have at least two feet of space to stand at the box and do         their work without coming into contact with your personal items.
•    If you will not be home, but another family member will be, please be sure to inform them of this scheduled visit in advance.
•    Avoid touching walls and painted surfaces for 2 hours after the visit. Surfaces that have been painted will be indicated with a piece of blue tape that can be easily removed once paint is dry.

If you have any questions or concerns about this work, please reach out to me directly.

Sarah Rastallis
Operational Services

October 13, 2022

Electrical service complete

Dear University Village Resident,

Power has been restored to your apartment and all planned work has been completed. Things to check:

  • Confirm that power was restored to your refrigerator
  • Confirm that all mini-split wall units have power
  • Contact the Facilities Service Center at 413.545.0812 if power to any outlets or appliances is not restored
  • Allow up to 2 hours for the hot water heater to bring the hot water to temperature before using hot water for showers or laundry

Thank you again for your patience and cooperation during these interruptions.

Facilites & Campus Services

October 12, 2022

Power outage update

Dear University Village Resident,

Power has been restored to your apartment for the day. A third outage will be needed tomorrow, October 13 from 10a - 2p to finish the work.

Things to check:

  • Confirm that power was restored to your refrigerator
  • Confirm that all mini-split wall units have power
  • Contact the Facilities Service Center at 413.545.0812 if power to any outlets or appliances is not restored
  • Allow up to 2 hours for the hot water heater to bring the hot water to temperature before using hot water for showers or laundry
  • The power will be interrupted again tomorrow at 10a to 2p. Please continue to take advantage of lunch in the Dining Commons and the Library 2nd floor lounge space.

Thank you again for your patience and cooperation.

Facilities & Campus Services

October 6, 2022

Resources during power outage

Dear University Village Resident,

In follow up to our email on Tuesday explaining the details related to the planned power outage in University Village on October 11, 12, 13 between 10am and 2pm each day, we have made the following arrangements to lessen the impact of this required outage.

Lunch in the Dining Commons

Please enjoy a meal in any one of the four Dining Commons (DC) listed below with their hours. When you enter the DC, please check in with the front desk staff member and state that you are a family from Family Housing and your apartment #, they will note that information and you will be able to enter and enjoy a meal between 10am-2pm,

Berkshire Dining Common: Open 11am-2pm Hampshire, Franklin and Worcester Commons: Open 10am-2pm

You can view menus and livestream video for each DC here.

Space on Campus

You are invited to the 2nd floor of the W.E.B DuBois Library space for students called RECESS which includes tables, chairs and some comfy seating. The space will allow you access to power and restroom facilities if you choose to use during any one of the days of the outage. When you enter the library, please take the elevator to the 2nd floor and follow the signage to the space. The space has games, coloring materials and a large white board for drawing. You are also welcome to bring in your own toys.

Please email faclities@umass.edu if you have any questions. Please note that if you need immediate response to a problem in your apartment, please call the Facilities Service Center 24 hours a day at 413.545.0812

October 4, 2022

Scheduled power interruption

Dear University Village Resident,

The University Village construction project has a scheduled power interruption that will affect all apartments during the following dates and times:

  • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 11 10:00am – 2:00pm
  • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12 10:00am – 2:00pm
  • *THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13 10:00am – 2:00pm This day is being held if needed. Residents will be notified day before.

This power shutdown is necessary to connect Buildings A and B, as well as the future portion of the complex, to the main utility source. Here is what you need to know.

What services will be unavailable during the time of the power outage?

  • Electricity
  • WiFi/Network Connectivity
  • Hot Water
  • Heat/Cooling system
  • Night Before/Morning Before Outage
  • Charge all electronic devices
  • Take a shower/bath
  • Save and close any work on your computer
  • Unplug computers, TVs, and other sensitive electronics from their power source.
  • Unplug power strips from power source
During the Outage
  • Avoid opening the refrigerator/freezer to keep the contents cold
  • You may still run cold water and flush toilets
  • Cellular service will still be available
After the Outage
  • Confirm that power was restored to your refrigerator
  • Confirm that all mini-split wall units have power
  • Contact the Facilities Service Center at 413.545.0812 if power to any outlets or appliances is not restored
  • Allow up to 2 hours for the hot water heater to bring the hot water to temperature before using hot water for showers or laundry

We are working on a campus location for residents to use during these hours, as well as lunch options for families during this time. We will be back in touch on Thursday with more details. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Marcin Celmer Capital Project Manager Design & Construction Management 413-219-6067

September 23, 2022

Community Information Session

Dear University Village Resident,

We hope the start of your semester has been going well.

We’re writing to invite you to a Community Information Session with the University Village Community on Wednesday, September 28th from noon to 1pm. We will hold this meeting via zoom so that students who may have to be on campus can also join. This will be an opportunity for residents to meet with the project team to get updates on the project and receive additional information on various facilities related topics. In an effort to be responsive to some residents questions about aspects of their units, we have scheduled this meeting with a short timeline, and realize not everyone may be able to attend. Therefore, we will follow this community information session with a written summary of updates and relevant information to all residents of University Village.

Please see the zoom meeting information below and we look forward to seeing you on Wednesday.

Jean MacKimmie, Director Residence Education Shane Conklin, Associate Vice Chancellor Facilities & Campus Services

September 19, 2022

Lawn Hydroseeding

Dear University Village Residents,

All lawn areas of University Village are being prepped for HYDROSEEDING right now, to nurture a healthy grassy area around the apartments. Brightview Landscaping will be weeding and tilling all the lawn areas around the residences to prepare for this next step in the process. Work around the apartments will not begin before 8am.

There will be some machine tilling of the larger grass areas beginning this week at building H and working towards building C. The weeding and tilling process will take place over the several weeks. The hydroseed will be installed once the weeding and tilling is complete in an area.

TO PREPARE for this process to take place:

  • Remove all toys and personal items from all lawn areas.
  • Once an area has been weeded + tilled, it cannot be walked on until the grass is established. This process typically takes 5 weeks after the hydroseed has been installed.
  • Assistance animals will need to remain off the areas until the grass is established.

September 15, 2022

UMass Electrical Utilities service

Dear University Village Residents,

UMass Electrical Utilities needs to shut down all electrical power to the University Village complex on Monday September 19th starting at 9:00 am. The outage should last no more than one hour.

We apologize for the inconvenience.

Marcin Celmer Capital Project Manager Design & Construction Management 413-219-6067

 

September 6, 2022

Correction: University Village Mailing Address

Dear Student,

Please note that there was an error in the mailing address included in my September 1 email. University Village is located on North (not East) Pleasant Street in Amherst. The complete corrected mailing address is as follows:

Student Name Apartment Number (Building Letter, 1, Apartment Number such as H101), University Village 990 N. Pleasant St. Amherst, MA 01002

Apologies for the error, and best wishes for a successful first day of classes!

Jean Ahlstrand MacKimmie Director of Residence Education

September 1, 2022

Welcome to University Village!

Dear Student,

We are thrilled to welcome you and your family as one of the first to join the new University Village Family Housing community! We look forward to creating a thriving community for UMass students and their dependents.

I am writing to provide you with information about the community and campus resources.

Best wishes, Jean Ahlstrand MacKimmie Director of Residence Education

Facilities and Maintenance

As you are residing in brand new construction, you may encounter issues that were not found in the comprehensive facility review completed by both the contractor and the university prior to your occupancy. We are committed to resolving any facilities concerns with the contractor as soon as you report them. To report emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, contact the Facilities Service Center at (413) 545-6401. Emergencies include the following:

  • doors and windows that do not close or lock properly
  • loose door knobs or knobs that fall off
  • heat, power, or water loss
  • flooding
  • continuously running water (sinks, toilets, showers)
  • clogged drains, sinks, and toilets
  • broken windows
  • Any use of fire extinguisher must be reported
  • Chirping/sounding smoke detector

For routine maintenance, submit a service request using the Service Maintenance Request System. By submitting a request, you give staff the right to enter your apartment to complete the work whether or not you are present. You can use Service to track the progress of your request.

Lock-outs: If you or a family member are locked out of the apartment, contact the Facilities Service Center at (413) 545-6401 for lock-out assistance. If you or a family member loses their apartment key, report the key loss to the Facilities Service Center to request a lock change. If you have questions about the use of your appliances, we have provided you access to the appliance manuals and an air conditioning/heating unit troubleshooting guide.

Construction Updates

University Village buildings and grounds will be under construction until project completion in spring 2023. The main construction areas will remain behind the construction fence until they are fully complete. We urge you to remain attentive and cautious throughout the academic year as construction continues. The following are current updates regarding construction timelines:

  • Construction of playground structures, located between the Community Center and the pedestrian walkway and between building G and the pedestrian walkway, began the week of August 21 and is expected to be completed by late September. There will be construction staff and equipment on the pedestrian walkway at times as construction progresses. Please use caution and walk on other sidewalks when there is equipment on the main pedestrian walkway.
  • Dumpster enclosure fencing installation is anticipated the first week of September.
  • We anticipate opening the Community Center in mid to late September and will keep you updated on progress. Once the Community Center is open, Residential Life will staff the center on a schedule that we will provide to residents.
University Policy and Expectations

As we open the new University Village community, it is important to me that you are aware of the expectations set for students in the community. We are committed to maintaining the health and safety of every member of this community. Your understanding and adherence to these policies helps to ensure a safe environment for all members of the University Village Community.

Resources

Residential Life Assignments living@umass.edu (413) 545-2100

Contact Residential Life Assignments for general questions about living in University Village, to notify Residential Life Assignments about a change in apartment occupants, or to inform Residential Life Assignments if you plan to move out.

UMass Parking Services parking@umass.edu (413) 577-PARK (7275)

To purchase a permit for the University Village lot, take the parking authorization letter that you received at check-in to Parking Services, 51 Forestry Way. Guest Parking: guests can park in any unreserved space in University Village until further notice.

University of Massachusetts Police Department Emergency Line: (413) 545-3111 In the event of a medical or other emergency, contact the University of Massachusetts Police Department (UMPD) or dial 911.

Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA) Bus System The PVTA provides transportation services in Amherst and surrounding communities. Rt 30 is the bus that picks up and drops off on North Pleasant St. near University Village. Download the Moblie App, UMass BusTrack , for more information.

Student Parent Programs studentparent@umass.edu (413) 577-1005

Student Parent Programs is available to all students who are pregnant or parenting. They offer help navigating campus and applying for childcare subsidies and resources including networking and kid-friendly activities.

Sustainable UMass

For information about campus waste guidelines, including items that can be recycled and items that should be placed in the trash, click here.

If you are looking for school supplies or items for your apartment, visit the New2U Tag Sale on Saturday, September 3 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Newman Center Café, 472 North Pleasant St.

ValleyBike

ValleyBike is an electric assisted pedal bike share program that allows you to borrow bikes from local stations for short bike trips around Amherst and surrounding areas. Student membership is discounted to $37.19 throughout September (regularly $60).

UMass American Culture and Language Program

The American Culture and Language Program is open to all UMass, Amherst, and surrounding community members who speak English as an additional language. Register at any time during the semester.

United States Postal Service 145 University Dr, Amherst, MA 01002 Phone: (413) 549-0523

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) manages the distribution of keys, service repairs, and lock changes for University Village mailboxes. To request a key for the apartment mailbox, bring the apartment authorization form (provided by Residential Life upon check in) to the Amherst Post Office on University Drive. If a post office box key is lost, resident will be charged $30 for a replacement key by USPS.

University Village Mailing Address:

Student Name Apartment Number (Building Letter, 1, Apartment Number such as H101), University Village 990 E. Pleasant St. Amherst, MA 01002

When you first open your mailbox, you will find a US Postal Service VACANT Card. Please complete the card and leave in your mailbox for the mail carrier.

 Question? Contact us.