Winter rains causing widespread hardships

This winter is setting rainfall records—and trying the patience of many of us who have been impacted by road closures, power outages, flooding, downed trees, and other hazards.

So far, the campus itself has survived the storms in fairly good shape, and I want to thank the crews that have worked around the clock, often in hazardous conditions, to maintain access, restore power, patch potholes and leaks, keep storm drains open and all of us safe.

It really doesn't matter where you live, just about everyone in Santa Cruz County and beyond has been affected by widespread road closures. Highway 17 has been highly problematic for many students, staff, and faculty, including hundreds of staff who recently moved into the new Scotts Valley Center. This has not been the rollout we had anticipated, so thank you for your patience.

I appreciate the flexibility of supervisors and managers who are making arrangements to minimize the inconvenience all of this has on employees, including encouraging those who can to work remotely when possible.

Looking at the forecast, there is more rain on the way. Batten down the hatches, grab your umbrella, and stay safe.