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University of Michigan to make a decision about reopening campus by end of June or sooner

While COVID cases have been increasing in dorms, the University says the biggest increases are coming from group housing off-campus.
Katie Raymond

The University of Michigan’s President says he hopes the school soon can decide when to reopen the campus to faculty and students. Mark Schlissel says it will be a gradual return.

"We realize, though, that people need to make plans. Our faculty and staff need to make plans with certainty. The students and their families need to make plans for getting them back here to Ann Arbor. So we're working on a timeline that will allow us to announce the decision in the weeks ahead. Certainly before the end of the month of June,” Schlissel said during an online townhall meeting with employees.

Schlissel says it could be sooner, but he’s trying to nail down some uncertainties first. He’s not yet made a recommendation to the university’s Board of Regents as to when to open.

He says U of M can only open with a “public health informed” community regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. He also stressed the need for a coronavirus testing regime for students and faculty.

“So we'll certainly follow the cue from the governor and her evolving set of executive orders. And we're planning for a gradual return,” Schlissel explained.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently allowed some in-person research projects at the state’s universities.

Schlissel says if a return to campus causes problems such as an outbreak of COVID-19, the University of Michigan will return to operating remotely.

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Lester Graham reports for The Environment Report. He has reported on public policy, politics, and issues regarding race and gender inequity. He was previously with The Environment Report at Michigan Public from 1998-2010.
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