Dear Howard University Community,  

Howard University is responding to weather-related facility concerns following an extended period of below-freezing temperatures. While rising temperatures are expected to ease strain on building systems, the thaw has introduced facility issues and temporary safety considerations that warrant continued awareness across campus. 

Earlier this week, the cafeteria at Bethune Annex experienced a sprinkler pipe rupture caused by prolonged freezing temperatures affecting the region. Response teams were immediately deployed to isolate the water source, begin remediation, and accelerate repairs. We expect the cafeteria to be back online during the regularly scheduled breakfast hours, tomorrow, Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026. Additionally, we have several actions underway to strengthen oversight and responsiveness to inquiries regarding our overall dining services. 

Facilities teams also responded immediately to an HVAC coil rupture in the chemistry building that caused interior flooding and initiated professional cleanup and restoration protocols. We are still in the assessment and remediation phase and will have a better timeline as to when the chemistry building will be back in service in the next 24-48 hours.   

Our facilities teams have also been addressing a ruptured pipe that caused water infiltration in the College of Dentistry building and the former location of the iLab (2301 Georgia Ave. NW), which was vacated last semester and is not currently in use.   

In addition to these two significant facility issues, we are managing other leaks and pipe ruptures across campus. While the impact of the recent weather event has resulted in temporary disruption to several of our facilities, there have been no reports of injuries to students, faculty, staff, and visitors to our campus.  

Physical Facilities Management (PFM), the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and residential partners remain fully mobilized. Our teams are conducting proactive inspections to identify any potential frozen pipe or HVAC related issues, quickly addressing any water intrusion, securing areas as needed, and prioritizing repairs to protect the campus environment.  

As accumulated ice and snow begin to loosen, there is the potential for refreezing, slippery surfaces, and debris or ice to fall from rooftops, elevated structures, and lamp posts. Out of an abundance of caution, crews are identifying and mitigating potential hazards on various surfaces and, including restricting access where appropriate. All community members are encouraged to exercise extra caution.  

We also want to reassure our campus community, parents, and families that the University is doing everything we can to ensure that the campus remains safe and operational. 

As stewards of a historic campus, the University recognizes that fluctuating winter conditions can place stress on infrastructure. As part of our deferred maintenance strategy, the University is actively implementing a multiyear plan focused on stabilizing core infrastructure, addressing known system risks, and modernizing aging assets. This work is essential to improving long-term reliability and mitigating weather-related disruptions across campus. Howard remains committed to decisive near-term response while pursuing long-term investments that will strengthen our infrastructure and institutional resilience. 

As we continue to respond to the impacts of this unprecedented winter weather event, we need your assistance. If you have a concern, or see a facility or hazardous issue, please report it right away. Your safety and comfort are our top priority.  

Safety Guidance

• Beware of refreezing presenting black ice and slippery conditions.
• Avoid lingering beneath rooftops, overhangs, lamp posts, or elevated structures.
• Observe posted signage and temporary safety barriers.
• When possible, select parking spaces away from buildings.
• Use designated walkways and report slippery conditions promptly. Allow facilities teams the space needed to safely perform response work. 

To Report Facilities Concerns

Within Residence Halls:

• Contact the residence hall staff on duty or the building manager. 
• For general concerns, call the Office of Residence Life at 202-806-9045. 
• For maintenance concerns, contact Student Housing Facilities at 202-250-7689.

Within Academic and Administrative Buildings:   

• Contact Physical Facilities Management at 202-806-1000.
• For emergencies, contact the Department of Public Safety at 202-806-1100 or call 911. 

We appreciate your continued partnership as our teams work diligently to maintain a safe campus environment. 

Rashad M. Young
Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer