18 Pencader students relocated after sewer back-up

5:46 p.m., Oct. 3, 2003--A plumbing problem that affected 12 rooms in the Pencader Residence Hall Complex Thursday evening has prompted the relocation of 18 UD students to rooms in the Embassy Suites Hotel across from the Bob Carpenter Center.

The problem occurred between 6-6:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 2, when a sewer line clogged and backed up on the first floors of Pencader B and C, according to Robert Stozek, associate vice president of facilities at UD. The 18 displaced students are expected to back in their rooms by Wednesday morning, he said.

After an initial cleaning of their rooms and carpets, the students will retrieve what they need for the next few days and then will box up their other belongings, which will be put in storage while the carpeting is removed from each room and the floor and walls are disinfected. After each room is thoroughly cleaned, new carpeting will be installed.

The University also has made arrangements for professional cleaners to sanitize clothing for the students who have been displaced and will help those affected file claims for reimbursements for property that may have been damaged.

Meanwhile, the displaced students will be transported by bus and van to classes and for dining on campus while they are housed in rooms at the Embassy Suites Hotel, which have Internet or wireless computer connections.

Quick thinking by a couple of students kept four rooms in the Pencader complex from flooding. They used duct tape to seal the thresholds at their front doors, Kathleen Kerr, director of Residence Life, said.

All affected students received e-mail and print letters with complete information on accommodations and services available to them.

For more information, call Residence Life at 463-3928.

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