Particle.news
Download on the App Store

UMass Boston Dorm Remains Closed After Burst Sprinkler Pipe as Dining Hall Reopens

Reentry awaits inspector sign-off on repairs to life-safety systems.

Overview

  • Extreme cold caused a sprinkler pipe to burst in a secured 10th-floor area, sending water through multiple levels and utility spaces.
  • Initial assessments found roughly 50 rooms on floors 2–10 with varying water damage, and flooding affected fire suppression and electrical infrastructure.
  • City and state inspectors authorized supervised access for students to retrieve essential belongings, and the first-floor dining commons resumed service Wednesday.
  • UMass Boston is providing temporary housing, meals, transportation help, and essential items, including placements at the Charles River (Mount Ida) campus and hotel rooms.
  • Students describe poor communication and uncertainty over housing and costs, and officials have not given a timeline for full reopening.