August 30, 2000

Ramapo College To Delay the Start of the Semester Due To Concerns About Water Quality

(Mahwah) – Dr. Alice Chandler, President of Ramapo College of New Jersey, today announced that the start of the fall semester will be delayed. Classes will begin Monday, September 11, instead of Wednesday, September 6 as previously scheduled. This follows the news that a test completed as part of the application for a certificate of occupancy for the newly constructed Maple Hall revealed a slightly elevated level of bacteria in the building’s water supply. In response to a second phase of testing at Maple and the adjacent Oak residence halls, College officials have arranged for the hyperchlorination of the plumbing systems of both buildings. The decision was made in consultation with public health officials.

Subsequent to the hyperchlorination, new tests will be performed to ensure safe water quality for the college community. In addition, water samples are being collected at every campus building for testing to ensure that the problem is isolated. As a precaution, College officials have advised people not to consume water from campus systems until final results are in. In the meantime, water fountains have been turned off and bottled water is being made available. Public health officials from the Mahwah Township Health Department stated that the water has been determined to be safe for all non-drinking purposes.

To allow for the completion of all testing, the revised orientation and freshmen move-in day is scheduled for Saturday, September 9, with upper-class students moving in on Sunday, September 10. All students are to receive a letter and new students are being contacted by telephone.

For updated information, check our Web site, www.ramapo.edu or call (201) 236-2902.


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