I write this morning thankful for the safety of everyone in the Pace Community. Our hearts go out to those injured and to the family of the person who lost their life in the tragic partial collapse of the parking garage on Ann Street. The Lower Manhattan community comes together during such times, and we appreciate the efforts of first responders and the outreach of so many of our neighbors who have offered assistance.
I am especially grateful for the staff in Student Affairs, Residential Life and Housing, Facilities, Safety and Security, University Relations, and so many others who worked hard throughout the afternoon and night yesterday to keep our students, faculty, and staff safe and secure. And thanks to all in the Pace Community for your cooperation and understanding as we managed the situation.
I am so pleased that we were able to have our residential students return to their rooms in 33 Beekman last night after the building was cleared by the New York City Department of Buildings and independent structural engineer consultants to verify safety. Though we will need to do some minor work to the façade below the third floor, I know we are all glad the disruption was relatively brief.
Our building at 161 William was also cleared for occupancy last night, however it is closed today out of an abundance of caution. I thank the faculty, staff, and students who occupy and use that building for their seamless shift to remote today and for their patience. We’ll be updating the community later today about the status of 161 William.
We will continue to provide information and updates via your Pace email and on the Pace.edu homepage. In the meantime, my sincere thanks to all for your outstanding efforts. I am inspired by the strength and resilience of the Pace Community.
