The City College of New York COVID-19 Safety Plan for Spring '23

The City College of New York has submitted affirmation that we have read and understand the higher education guidelines per the New York State Reopening Guidelines for Higher Education.

CCNY's Campus Coronavirus Coordinator is Ken Ihrer, Vice President of Operations, kihrer@ccny.cuny.edu , (917) 242-8583. CCNY's Coronavirus Campus Liaison is Richard Belgrave, Director of Environmental Health and Occupational Safety, rbelgrave@ccny.cuny.edu , (646) 823-7953. Please direct all inquiries regarding this plan to Vice President Ihrer or Director Belgrave.

This document refers in a number of places to "occupancy". Occupancy is defined both locally and campus-wide. For example, if the occupancy limit is 50%, this value may refer to the campus as a whole, to a building, or to a space within a building. In all cases, fractional occupancy is with respect to nominal occupancy. For example, a 70% occupancy limit means that total campus occupancy should be 70% of what it is on a normal day, pre-pandemic; the same applies to each building, office, lab, or studio space that can hold multiple people – occupancy should be reduced to 70% of the maximum occupancy, or to a single person, whichever is larger. Maximum occupancy of a room will be 70% of the fire code maximum or the square footage divided by π(3ft)2, whichever is less (note that using a radius of 3ft per person maintains 6ft distancing. Further restrictions may be in place based on social distancing guidelines that may reduce occupancy further.

Occupancy percentage will be determined by risk factors that may include, but are not restricted to: infection rates, vaccination percentages, and safety factors associated with specific buildings and locations.

Part I: COVID Safety for the Campus Community

Plans to prevent the entrance and spread of COVID-19 to the campus

Monitoring Health and Safety

1. Testing

   A testing center for COVID-19 is available on campus in the Amsterdam Room that adjoins the Faculty Dinning Room. Unvaccinated people are required to show proof of a negative COVID test, taken within 7 days, in order to enter campus. For those who are vaccinated or unvaccinated but allowed to come to campus, CUNY has made provision to test at-will as well as implemented random testing to determine if a variant is impacting our population. In order to be allowed on campus, a person must present a negative COVID test or show proof of vaccination. COVID test results and vaccination status will be centrally loaded into a system called Cleared4 and will provide a token that can be shown to enter any of our buildings.

   If you live closer to another CUNY campus that has a testing center, you can elect to take your test there. Tests from the 20 locations across the city are permissible for all campuses and can be scheduled or accommodated by walk-in requests.

2. Health Screening

   Health screening, starting this Fall 2022 semester, will be through the presentation of a blue or green pass through Cleared4. If you are not feeling well and are exhibiting any symptoms of COVID-19, please stay home and seek out COVID testing. If you receive a positive COVID test, notify the campus (supervisor and Human Resources for employees and school nurse for students). The easiest way to communicate with CCNY about your COVID status is to email CCNY-COVID@ccny.cuny.edu .

   The College will cooperate with the State and local health department to trace all contacts in the workplace dating back to 48 hours before the individual first experienced COVID-19 symptoms, or tested positive, whichever is earlier.

   The City University of New York has established a mechanism that tracks employees who have tested positive for COVID-19. CCNY employees who have tested positive have a responsibility to inform Human Resources of their positive status. All persons who have been on campus within 72 hours of experiencing COVID symptoms must notify Campus COVID officials at CCNY-COVID@ccny.cuny.edu . This directive is in place even if the affected individual has no plans to return to campus.

3. Handling COVID Positive and Potentially COVID positive cases

   1. Contact Tracing

      Contact tracing is an important disease control measure to prevent further spread of COVID-19. Listed below is the contact tracing procedure that CCNY will follow when a positive COVID-19 test is reported by someone who has been on campus during their infectious period – defined as three days prior to showing any symptoms of COVID-19 or receiving a positive test result.

   2. Contact tracing, through phone interviews, will consist of:
      • Notifying a person who has tested positive to isolate (covered below in isolation)
      • Gathering information on the contacts that person had during their infectious period, so that those individuals can be contacted and provided with specific guidance based on CDC recommendations (critical step in the actual process of contact tracing).
      • Communicating with students, faculty and staff who have come into close (within six feet) and/or sustained (more than 10 minutes over 24 hours) contact with confirmed cases (the actual contact) and are not vaccinated. It is known that contact tracing will be much more difficult when people are on campus in proximity with many people who they do not know. This is one of the many reasons why vaccination is important. Best efforts will be made to perform contact tracing but it should be known that this is not a comprehensive protocol.
      • Communicating directly and immediately with the campus community regarding cases through the reporting process with CUNY and the CUNY COVID Dashboard located here. Additional information can be found on our website at Return to Campus (cuny.edu).

New York State, New York City and CUNY established protocols for:

Individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 will be contacted by either Human Resources (for an employee) or Student Services ( for a student) and will be asked about individuals in whose physical proximity they have been while they may have been infectious. The infectious period is considered to be three days before the onset of symptoms and until all symptoms have subsided without the aid of medication to control the symptoms.

We utilize directives from the NYCDOH and CUNY to identify a contact as someone who has been within six (6) feet of the infectious person for a combined total of 10 minutes over a 24-hour period. These contacts are then notified about their potential exposure (without revealing the identity of the diagnosed person) and, depending on their vaccination status, will be given specific directions on how to proceed that will be explained below in the quarantine procedures.

Primary contact tracing responsibilities and procedures for identified cases of COVID-19 are the provenance of the New York State Department of Health and New York City Department of Health. New York City DOH is responsible for contact tracing protocols and how we should inform individuals who have had contacts that put them at risk of infection, advising them regarding self-quarantine and testing, and providing the necessary support. Our process is to gather contact tracing information from the infected person and then contact those and ask provide them guidance as described in the quarantine procedures below. CCNY's contact tracing efforts go only as far as those associated with the campus. The NYC DOH's contact tracing goes beyond campus exposures.

CCNY will assist the New York City Health Department of Health in the identification and tracing of those individuals who may have tested positive for COVID-19. By performing initial contact tracing functions for the CCNY community and coordinating with the health department by supplying them with the names and contact information of all of those who were potentially exposed.

Isolate and Quarantine

• You quarantine when you might have been exposed to the virus. There is a specific process for quarantine based will be described below.
• You isolate when you have been infected with the virus, even if you don't have symptoms.

Based on the evolving nature of COVID, CDC has revised their guidance on isolation and quarantine.

Isolation Guidelines if You Test Positive for COVID-19

Everyone, regardless of vaccination status.

• Stay home for 5 days (day 0 is your first day of symptoms, or the day of your first positive test if you do not develop symptoms).
  • Stay in a separate room from other household members, if possible.
• Use a separate bathroom, if possible.
• Take steps to improve ventilation at home, if possible.
• Avoid contact with other members of the household and pets.
• Don't share personal household items, like cups, towels, and utensils.
• Wear a well-fitting mask when you need to be around other people.
• If an individual has access to a test, the best approach is to use an antigen test towards the end of the 5-day isolation period. Collect the test sample only if you are fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication and your other symptoms have improved. If your test result is positive, you should continue to isolate until day 10.
• Continue to wear a well-fitting mask around others for 5 additional days; if you cannot wear a mask, continue to isolate for 5 days.
• If you have a fever, continue isolation until you are fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.
• If you were severely ill with COVID-19 you should isolate for at least 10 days. Consult your doctor before ending isolation.
• To return to campus, you must supply a negative test (preferably an Antigen test) or a note from your doctor saying you are no longer contagious and are able to return to work.

Effective isolation policies and resources are key to the mitigation of potential clusters or outbreaks of COVID-19 on campus. The CDC defines isolation as separating sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick, and quarantine as separating and restricting the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick (see quarantine below).

Isolation at CCNY begins with a person with symptoms receiving a positive COVID test result. Persons who may have been exposed to an individual with COVID-19, or who demonstrate evidence of infection, will need to follow quarantine procedures and will be asked to test by the COVID Coordinator's designee. If the test comes back positive, the person will be asked to isolate through the COVID Coordinator's designee. During Isolation, the infected person should restrict their contact with other people and should understand that the potential of spreading the virus to others is high. Any care givers should ensure they are appropriately protected with PPE and/or are fully vaccinated before providing care.

An individual or group of individuals who become sick during regular activity will be asked to exit the premises by the COVID Coordinator or his designee or will be transported in accordance with our Transportation of the Sick protocols (see below). Such individuals will be provided with a tight-fitting mask if they do not already have one and will be assisted in leaving the premises by a vaccinated CCNY public safety person or Health and Wellness person. Rooms ASRCG/762, MR/15A and CWE-7-33 have been set aside to accommodate patients awaiting ambulance or assisted transport. The ambulance service must be informed prior to arrival on site that the person is exhibiting symptoms consistent with COVID-19.

Quarantine

Circumstances for quarantine will be based off of your amount of contact with the infected person. For normal interaction, such as on campus, quarantining is no longer required. If you live with or must have frequent interactions with the infected person, then quarantine is recommended. Please reach out to the COVID Coordinator or Liaison for further details.

If You Were Exposed to Someone with COVID-19

If You Were Exposed to Someone with COVID-19, everyone, regardless of vaccination status.

• You do not need to quarantine.
• Wear a well-fitting mask around others for 10 days.
• Get tested at least 5 days after your close contact (the date of your exposure is considered day 0); if you test positive, stay home and isolate.

CCNY's Current Operating Protocol

Campus Capacity

Approximately 80% of total campus capacity

The Spring 2023 semester represents a basic return to campus with approximately 80 percent of classes in person. While it is recognized that people who are vaccinated can and do still contract COVID-19, the severity of the illness is greatly reduced in most cases. Because this virus may impact the unvaccinated at a much more severe level, we encourage anyone who hasn't received the vaccine to please consider doing so.

As faculty and students are required to be vaccinated, social distancing in classrooms is not required. Any student or faculty with an exemption can and should find a way to maintain six feet of distance from the general population.

Some occupancy restrictions around campus will be in place but will be reduced:

• Open-plan offices: configured with at least 6 feet distance from another person, as described in our social distancing protocol, in any other shared cubicle or desk except when all occupants are vaccinated.
• Shared, closed-door offices: configured with at least 6 feet distance from another person, as described in our social distancing protocol, in any other shared cubicle or desk except when all occupants are vaccinated.

Conference Rooms: PPE is highly recommended. Conference rooms will be available for in-person meetings. Unvaccinated participants should use virtual meeting technology to attend unless accommodations are made to hold a socially-distanced meeting. Check with the meeting organizer to see how the meeting will be held.

COVID-19 Protocol for Spring 2023

Item
Essential Employees	On-Campus
Faculty and Staff	Faculty and staff are required to be on campus at least 70% of the time unless they have received special accommodations.
Students	Restricted: Open to those students who are vaccinated and taking an on-campus class or to those students who have an exemption. All students coming to campus must have proof of vaccination for COVID-19 or an exemption in CUNY First.
Approved Research Labs Contractors/Vendors	Must register through the Cleared4 visitor system and provide vaccine proof or a current negative COVID-19 test.
Classes and Seminars	All classes that are to be held on campus for Spring 2023 have been approved by the Provost. Any Seminars or special events should go through Provost approval
Public Programming, Non Degree Programming	Approval from VP of Operations after consultation with Sr. Leadership Team.
Student Clubs, Groups, Organizations (Extracurricular)	Controlled: for vaccinated students only.
Student Facilities (Library, Computer Labs, Labs, Lounges)	Open: These facilities will be open during Spring 2023.
Classrooms, Seminar/Thesis Rooms, Conference Rooms	Open: As students will be required to be vaccinated. Social distancing is not required
Child Development and Learning Center	Open: limited capacity
Department and Public Lounges	Open
Dining Commons and Pantries	Open: For Spring 2023, we will be resuming dinning services with a limited number of vendors
Use of Off-Site Catering Services/Food Delivery	Open
University Sponsored Academic and Business Travel	Based on CUNY rules
CUNY Sponsored Student International and Domestic Travel	Based on CUNY rules
Daily Wellness Checks	Self administered with those who are sick, staying home
Mask Usage	Recommended but not required
Physical Distancing Requirements (Minimum 6 feet)	Recommended for non-vaccinated individuals but not required
Elevator Capacity | Passenger	As posted on the elevator
Elevator Capacity | Freight	2
Stairwells (Ascending & Descending)	Open
Guests	Open: Requires COVID-19 vaccination or negative COVID test within the past seven days and registration in Cleared4

Reclosing Protocols

The process to shut down will be informed by a report on the rate of infection on campus. The infection rate is looked at through the lens of campus population in relation to the number of positive tests reported through our CUNY COVID Testing program. Each positive test is reported to CUNY and is also monitored locally by the CCNY COVID Coordinator, COVID Liaison and Sr. Leadership. Procedures for closure based on a specific number or percentage have been removed by the state. We are currently looking at the number of infections on a specific areas or classroom to make determinations on what areas should be closed due to large infection rates. This information will then be brought forward to the Chancellor and the CUNY COVID-19 Committee to confirm building areas or classrooms that should be closed.

Closing the entire campus, with the exception of the workforce required to safely keep the operations of the campus' physical plant, security and critical research areas will be determined by the Chancellor along with government officials. They will use internal data provided by CCNY and external criteria, including State and Federal infection rates. Additionally, COVID infection rates among critical workforce required to maintain the health and safety of our campus will be considered in closing the campus.

If a classroom requires closing, the instructor will be asked to remove the class to an online modality if at all possible. After the isolation/quarantine period for the class is up (typically 5 days for the vaccinated), students will be asked to return to campus.

If CCNY requires closing an area or building due to exposure, facilities will clean the area in accordance to CDC guidelines as outlined in the Cleaning Protocols below. Information about area closures and building closures will be posted on our website under the Return to Campus section located here.

Entrances to buildings

All entrances to buildings will be controlled by Public Safety. Access to buildings bypassing public safety is prohibited. Public Safety will ensure everyone entering has a valid Cleared4 Pass.

Specific Campus Spaces

Classroom/ teaching laboratory/studio class policies

Under this Spring 2023 COVID-19 Plan, CCNY classes will be in-person, Hybrid, HyFlex and online modes. We are expecting approximately 80% of our classes to be in-person. Students will know when they register how the class will be presented.

Classroom spaces will not require social distancing. For those classes that are going to be online, hybrid or HyFlex, our Information Technology department has purchased equipment that can be used by instructors for both Hybrid and HyFlex. This equipment is managed by iMedia and can be obtained by going to our reservation desk in the NAC building, first floor.

1. Definitions: The online designation is reserved for courses that hold 100% of class activities virtually. The hybrid designation is for courses with a combination of in-person and virtual activities. The HyFlex designation is for courses in which an instructor simultaneously teaches online and in-person students.
2. Classroom will support occupancy rates as established by the Fire Department.
3. Classrooms, laboratories and studios will be cleaned daily by campus Facilities staff. Disinfectants and a microfiber cloth will be available in each space so that high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, can be cleaned between classes by the entering instructor or students.

Research Lab Spaces

Research Lab spaces on campus will maintain density limit according to the fire codes for that space.

1. Research faculty will be responsible for creating their own and other researcher work plans consistent with these guidelines. The College COVID Liaison will monitor compliance.
2. Campus OSHA staff should be contacted to report potentially unsafe conditions as a result of decreased occupancy.
3. Cleaning supplies will be made available in or near all research lab spaces on campus for use by the inhabitants.
4. Shared research lab space, where not all occupants are fully vaccinated, should not be used by multiple people at once unless social distancing can be maintained. Surfaces in shared spaces should be cleaned by the inhabitants on a regular basis. Where all persons working in a lab are vaccinated, social distancing rules are lifted.
5. Signage will be displayed in each research lab promoting social distancing and proper personal hygiene and respiratory etiquette (i.e. coughing and sneezing into the elbow).

Office Spaces

Office spaces on campus will maintain a density limit. Most campus staff will be expected to have at least a 70% campus presence. Maintaining occupancy limits should be done primarily by staggering work schedules rather than designating certain employees as remote workers.

• Campus units will be responsible for creating their own work plans consistent with these guidelines. The College COVID coordinator will monitor compliance.
• Office spaces will be cleaned by Facilities staff according to the normal cleaning schedule.
• Campus OSHA staff will check areas that have been closed for problems such as mold and rodents, and will flush water in sinks, prior to the space being re-inhabited.
• Cleaning supplies will be made available in or near all office spaces on campus for use by the inhabitants.
• Shared office space should not be used by multiple people at once unless social distancing can be maintained or all occupants are vaccinated. Surfaces in shared office spaces should be cleaned by the inhabitants on a regular basis.
• Signage will be displayed in each office promoting social distancing and proper personal hygiene and respiratory etiquette (i.e. coughing and sneezing into the elbow).

The Tech Center and Computer Labs

The Tech Center and OIT controlled computer labs will function at full capacity (since all students are required to be vaccinated) with the exception of the computers outlining the perimeter of the Tech Center, which will have every other computer marked off for use by remote students. OIT lab computers will be configured for both in-person and remote access usage.

• A Plexiglas shield has been installed to separate staff at the reservation counter from patrons
• Computers in the Tech Center and Fishbowl are configured to allow CCNY students to remotely access CUNY and CCNY site-licensed software. Computers in open (non-classroom) areas will alternate between remote access and in-person use. Those reserved for remote access will be marked accordingly. In the event that a non-vaccinated student meets an authorized condition for being on campus without a vaccine (i.e. exempt), accommodations will be made for those students. Since all students are required to be vaccinated, we do not anticipate many non-vaccinated students coming to campus for computing resources. In the event that we do have non-vaccinated students, these students will be directed to computers along the perimeter of the Tech Center that are socially distanced.
• Students will be allowed to use computers in the Tech Center's STC computer labs at full occupancy (since all students are required to be vaccinated), provided classes are not in session and its general use computers are occupied.
• Students must make a reservation with Tech Center staff to use the collaboration spaces such as the Multimedia Study Rooms (MSR) or Active Learning Classrooms (ALC)
• Faculty who would like to use the Tech Center must make a reservation with Tech Center staff for the use of a Study Room (SR), located in the rear of the facility, where the capacity is limited to one individual per room.
• Signage, tape lines, and physical barriers will help regulate the flow of traffic, indicating safe separation intervals for those entering, exiting, using, and awaiting resources and services
• To help ease the identification of and navigation to available computers, Tech Center digital signage will indicate areas where computers are available.
• Hand sanitizing stations have been strategically placed around computer labs and bathrooms

Other Computer Labs

• Where feasible computer labs used by students should follow the same guidelines used in the Tech Center. Additionally, It is recommended that these computer labs configure their computers to allow remote access.
• Computer lab managers can contact the Office of Information Technology for more information to enable this functionality.

Technical Support

The Office of Information Technology (OIT) will be operating in-person to assist students, faculty and staff with desktop, remote, and classroom support.

• OIT areas that provide frontline technical support (Service Desk, Tech Center, iMedia, Reservation Desk, Client Services, Divisional Support, Network Services, and Telecommunications) support in-person operations at close to 80% staffing levels.
• Other non-frontline OIT staff will continue working as required as determined by their supervisor and job function.
• Where feasible, OIT will reserve areas for staff whose vaccination status is confirmed where social distancing will not be required, and other for those whose vaccination status is unknown where workstations will be separated to maintain social distancing.
• Hand sanitizing stations will be located in hallways and inside of the OIT office; a spray bottle containing a quarto disinfectant will be available for anyone to sanitize their office furnishings and electronic equipment.

Service Desk

• A Plexiglas shield has been installed to separate patrons from staff at the service counter.
• A hand sanitizing station will be installed in the work area.
• A spray bottle containing a quarto disinfectant will be available to sanitize furnishings and electronic equipment.
• A limit of two Service Desk staff at the front counter to assist faculty, staff and students while maintaining the required social distancing; other Service Desk staff may service patrons using remote access from our Kiosks in the Tech Center. If demand requires more staff members, more will be on-site.
• Kiosks may also be used as virtual assistance in front of service counters.
• Tape lines and signage will be used to help maintain spacing intervals between patrons.

Device Loaner Reservation Desk

• A Plexiglas shield has been installed to separate customers from staff at the main window
• A hand sanitizing station will be located on the inside wall next to the doorway entrance to the office
• A spray bottle containing a quarto disinfectant will be available for anyone to sanitize their office furnishings and electronic equipment
• A three-person limit is set for the number of employees that will be allowed to work in this office
• All patrons, including faculty, will be served at the window one at a time. Faculty needing technology for an upcoming class will be given priority by notifying the front desk
• Tape lines for customers requiring services

Gatherings in Enclosed Spaces

Note: When the protocols listed in this section are violated, please refer to the section on Reporting Unsafe Practices.

• In-person seminars and events are now allowed to be held but require prior approval from the CCNY COVID Coordinator or can continue to use virtual meeting technology in a HyFlex manner such that fully vaccinated people can attend in-person while unvaccinated people can attend via online technology.
• Per NYS guidelines, in situations or settings of more than 5,000 participants with guests of unknown, or mixed vaccination status, CCNY's COVID Coordinator will work with the event planner and choose whether to keep physical distancing measures in place or operate separate areas for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.
• For campus events with less than 5,000 participants but still with a significant number of guests of unknown or mixed vaccination status, the CCNY COVID Coordinator will work with the event organizer to decide whether to require social distancing, or implement other protocols, for unvaccinated individuals.
• In-person meetings can take place for vaccinated persons without social distancing, utilizing HyFlex for the unvaccinated where possible.
• Many communal areas such as lunch areas and cafeteria spaces will be opened. The areas will incorporate social distance standards for a mixed vaccination status population, based on occupancy rates
• Elevator and Escalator protocols
  • Capacity of elevators will be limited to a specific number of occupants based on the size and capacity of the elevator.
  • Individuals will be encouraged to use stairs and escalators rather than elevators when possible, especially when descending; elevator use should be prioritized for persons with accessibility needs. Signage will be placed discouraging congregating in waiting areas outside of elevators
  • Facilities staff will clean and disinfect high touch elevator surfaces at various times throughout the day
  • Hand sanitizing stations will be placed at elevator call stations or in close vicinity to elevators.
• See facilities plan for additional details and proposed signage

Movement and Commerce

Campus visitors

We follow CUNY's Campus Visitor Policy

A visitor to a University campus is someone who is not a CUNY student, faculty or staff member. Examples of visitors include, but are not limited to:

• vendors and other individuals coming to campus to perform activities related to a contract with or in support of the University;
• employees of related entities of CUNY including without limitation auxiliary enterprise corporations, colleges associations, and child care centers;
• unpaid college interns;
• community members and other individuals coming to a campus to use University facilities such as pools and gyms, or to attend activities on campus; and
• family members or friends of CUNY students, faculty, or staff.

Rules for Visitors

Every visitor to the CCNY campus must show official identification to the public safety security guard and sign in at the desk in order to enter any of our campus buildings.  While proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative COVID tests are not required, it is important that anyone who is visiting our campus be mindful of their health status.  If you are experiencing COVID-like symptoms, have recently been exposed or have recently had COVID-19 and have not yet tested negative, please stay off of our campus.

Human Subjects Research

Human subjects research may continue noting recommended practices limiting in-person research procedures and public interactions on campus. All Human Subjects Research activities, including intervention and interaction with human participants, must be approved by CUNY's Institutional Review Board. An Amendment will be submitted with the updated consent document including the following suggested language in your campus research operational approval plan – "This research conducted in-person and will entail face-to-face interaction with research staff. All in-person research conducted at a CUNY campus follows national, state, local and CUNY COVID-19 safety guidelines. Additionally, this research has been approved by a CUNY Campus in-person research resumption committee and follows all required safety guidelines."

For external visitors to campus, the practices outlined above in Movement and Commerce/Campus Visitors must be followed.

Travel

All employees of CCNY are subject to University, State, City and Federal guidelines for travel. Faculty and staff may travel provided their travel is consistent with these guidelines. Because these guidelines change frequently, we do not list them here. Travelers are responsible for keeping current with the latest guidelines.

Part II: Cleaning and Safety:

The CDC indicates that the chance of contracting the Covid-19 virus by personal contact with hard surfaces is remote. Similarly, the value for reducing transmittance by using portable transparent barriers has also been shown to be low. As a result, the College will not be placing priorities on the use of portable transparent barriers but will continue to have portable transparent barriers at service windows. Regarding high touch surfaces, while the chance for transmittance is low, the College will continue the practice of cleaning high touch surfaces in public spaces.

This section of the plan will discuss protocols that have been established for hygiene, cleaning and the use and dissemination of protective equipment.

1. Protective Equipment

   Employees who face the public, such as the office of Public Safety, the Bursar, the office of financial aid, etc., will be provided with a barrier protection, such as a Plexiglas shield, to set a safe separation distance with the general public.

   1. All personnel should reference CDC guidance on the use of PPE and familiarize themselves with updated guidance, fact sheets and videos at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/using-ppe.html.
   2. The CDC recognizes that the chance for transmitting Covid-19 via surfaces is low. However, to be conservative, this plan suggests that the sharing of objects, such as tools, equipment, machinery, touchscreens, and vehicles, as well as the touching of shared surfaces, should be limited and those surfaces should be cleaned should they be shared.
       

2. Hygiene, Cleaning, and Disinfecting
    

   2. Hygiene, cleaning, and disinfection of College spaces will adhere to the guidance and requirements from the CDC and the NYS Department of Health (DOH). The College will maintain logs that document date, time, and scope of cleaning and disinfection for bathrooms and high touch surfaces.
   3. Quaternary disinfectant, or equivalent, will be made available in or near all rooms and offices to be used by occupants to clean high-touch surfaces at a frequency which they deemed appropriate for the space. This includes, but is not limited to, high touch surfaces, flat surfaces such as desks and lockers, and any other area normally used on a day-to-day basis by the staff member. The College will remain responsible for removing trash from offices, cleaning the office floors and maintaining the building infrastructure within offices.
   4. Public high touch surfaces such as elevator buttons, security desks, and door handles to buildings and stairwells will be cleaned and disinfected at least daily by the custodial staff. Logs will be maintained documenting this work.
   5. Hand hygiene stations containing at least 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer will be provided and maintained at the entrance to all facilities, next to all elevators call stations and adjacent drinking fountains. If anyone notes that a hand sanitizing station is without sanitizer, please use the QR code located on the station.
   6. Restroom facilities will be stocked with soap and disposable paper towels and restocked on a daily basis, or more frequently if needed. The lavatories in many restrooms on-campus are not fitted with touch-free faucets. In these cases, hand sanitizer dispensers will be placed just outside those bathrooms.
   7. The campus will be using posters, prompts and video monitors throughout the campus to highlight important principles such as hand washing, face covering, social distancing.
   8. Common dining areas will be limited for Spring 2023. The sharing of food and beverages is discouraged.
   9. In general, the Facilities will be using the following equipment and disinfectants:
      • Quaternary disinfectants (Spic and Span Disinfectant and 3M 25H Quat Disinfectant) Both EPA approved;
      • Kaivac No-Touch cleaning systems for restrooms. This is a light pressure sprayer with a vacuum to pretreat, scrub and clean restrooms;
      • Portable hand-held ultraviolet light disinfecting equipment – used primarily for key boards and other equipment sensitive to spray disinfectants
      • Steam cleaners - for water fountains and restrooms; and,
      • Electrostatic sprayers - to mist and instantly disinfect large areas as needed.

3. Cleaning Support for Self-Cleaning

   Facilities will provide a spray bottles with a quaternary disinfectant, a Safety Data Sheet for the disinfectant and a microfiber cloth in or near all offices/workspaces to help faculty and staff ensure the areas are kept free of contaminants. The disinfectants in use are the Spic and Span disinfectant and, for emergency cleaning purposes, Quat 3m 25H disinfectant—both are EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) approved. Refills may be obtained by calling the Facilities Department at x8675 or by email at facilities@ccny.cuny.edu .

4. Procurement of Necessary PPE and Cleaning Supplies and Services

   CCNY has purchased face masks, PPE and hand sanitizers. These products are available to the general public at locations throughout the campus. The campus will facilitate other purchases on a department by department basis as approved.

   Cleaning supplies are purchased in according with CUNY's purchasing hierarchy to ensure that CCNY's needs are adequately and consistently met. These vendors include the Sate of New York's preferred source supplier (New York State Industries for the Disabled); CUNY's maintenance, operation and repair vendor (Grainger/Edge Electronics); and, where necessary, from other contracted vendors.

   Where needed, purchases will also be made from the University's MOR supplier, Grainger/Edge Electronics, and through the CUNYfirst marketplace interface, "Punch-out,".

5. Financing

   If a specific department requests PPE equipment, a requisition can be submitted into CUNYfirst. The item must be charged to the program code specifically created for COVID-19-related purchases: 80431. CCNY's Finance team will ask departments to project their PPE spend in six-month increments, including, if required, on a prescribed or requested delivery schedule of PPE related items. This will allow Procurement to uniformly address CCNY's needs, and take advantage of favorable terms with larger orders.

6. Official Communications from the Finance Department to College Vendors/Suppliers

   The College Fiscal Affairs Office (Procurement and AP Teams) will require its vendors—through an official communication—to comply with its policy of ensuring proper safety standards when visiting campus to complete necessary work. Namely, the vendors will be asked to:

   1. Practice social distancing (minimum of six feet)
   2. Ensure sick employees stay home
   3. Consider possible daily wellness checks
   4. Educate their employees on the necessary steps they can take to protect themselves at work (proper hygiene, including handwashing, routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces, etc.)
   5. Check-in with the Office of Public Safety every time they visit the campus.

   This official communication will also state that vendors who must complete essential work on campus (i.e., maintenance and repair of key infrastructure), are to provide a written COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan as stated in OSHA 3990-03 2020, "Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19."

   Additionally, please be advised that the University Office of General Counsel is working on University-wide contract language to incorporate into new and amended agreements to address concerns regarding contracted vendors providing work on campus. Official Communications from the Finance Department to College Requestors/End-Users
   CCNY's Fiscal Affairs Office (Procurement and AP teams) will send a notification to the College community informing them that any requisition for goods or services directly related to COVID-19 must use the program code, 80431. This notification can also contain the latest shipment and delivery information of goods procured by CCNY's Procurement team.

7. Official Communications from Occupational Health and Safety

   Signage around campus reminds all personnel of the CDC guidelines for COVID-19 safety and proper personal hygiene in the workplace. Signage will also be in place to encourage vaccinations.

8. Reporting Unsafe Practices or Unclean Conditions

   Unsafe practices should be reported immediately.

   If an area, restroom, classroom or common space is in need of a cleaning, please contact facilities by calling 212-650-8675.

   All personnel should report unsafe practices to their supervisor. Confidential reports can be made to the Associate Provost for Research, the Provost, the Vice President for Operations or Human Resources.

   Resolving issues with unsafe practices is ultimately the responsibility of the Provost. Resolving such issues among Facilities and Public Safety staff is ultimately the responsibility of the Vice President for Operations.

9. Employer Plans

   This safety plan will be available on the campus website and will be conspicuously posted at the entrance to each campus building and at elevator call stations on each building floor.

Part III: HVAC Systems

Indoor Environmental Quality

Figure 2
HVAC System Components

1. Air Filtration

   Supply air is filtered via a series of filters in the air handling unit as shown in Figure 1 above. Some air handling units filter air using one rack of filters while other use two racks of filters. In either case, the CDC recommends that the final filter that air passes through meet a minimum Merv 13 rating. For the air handling units on the CCNY campus all of the air handling units meet a minimum Merv 13 rating with the exception of the following:

   • Marshak Rooftop Air Handlers

   Over the past five years a capital project has ensued in the Marshak building that included the installation of five (5) new air handling units on the rooftop of the building. These new air handling units are designed to service the laboratory spaces located on the perimeter of the east and west sides of the building from the third floor to the thirteenth floor of the building. These air handling units are fitted with Merv 8 filters and are designed to provide 100% outside air to those spaces. Therefore, since the supply air is void of any return air, a Merv 8 filter is acceptable for these air handling units.

2. Rebalance or Adjust HVAC Systems

   Most of the large air handling units in campus buildings service large vertical cross-sections of the building. As an example, in the case of the NAC building, any one of the air handling units in that building may be servicing a defined vertical core of the building from the first floor to the eighth floor. Other air handling units in that building may be servicing a more limited vertical core consisting of a lesser number of floors. This same scenario holds true for most of the buildings on-campus such as Shepard, Steinman, Wingate and Harris. These campus air handling units have been surveyed and deemed acceptable by CUNY

3. Limiting Factors

   In reference to Figure 2 above, there are many components to an HVAC system that need to function properly in order to supply and return air within buildings. While most of the campus HVAC infrastructure works fine, it is believed that some air supply dampers in the Shepard building may be closed, thereby restricting air flow through certain spaces in the Shepard building. Again, this condition was brought to CUNY's attention early in the pandemic whereupon CUNY engaged the services of DASNY to investigate the condition of the fire dampers and smoke/purge dampers in the Shepard building. That work is in the beginning stages and probably will not be completed by the Spring 2023 start of semester. Therefore, in order to mitigate this situation, the following engineering controls will be taken:

   3. • The Shepard building has double sash moveable windows. While we do not want any staff, faculty or students to open or close these windows due to the weight of the sashes, the Facilities department will crack-open the sashes of some windows in classrooms where ventilation is found to be compromised.
      • The campus will be purchasing portable air purifiers fitted with HEPA filters to be used in classrooms that are experiencing compromised ventilation. A link to the portable air purifier, or equal, is as follows: https://classroomairpurifiers.com/ed400. If additional air circulation is desired, a free standing fan can also be used to further facilitate air circulation.

4. Maintenance

   The Facilities Department follows ASHRAE's 62.1-2019, "Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality" as a guide for the maintenance of the campus air handling units. All air handling maintenance has been performed to-date and will again be revisited prior to the beginning of the Spring 2023 semester.

Part IV: Health and Wellness, Support and Outreach

1. Health and Wellness Operations

   • Health and Wellness office will be open in person Monday through Thursday 9:00 am – 5:00 PM. Fridays, the department will be available remotely.
   • Counseling Center and Gender Resources counselors will rotate and provide in person clinical services Monday through Thursday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
   • Counseling walk-in hours for students will be available Monday through Thursday from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

   Student Health Services:

   The American College Health Association (ACHA) has provided considerations for reopening institutions of higher education in the COVID 19 era which outlines Student Health Services (SHS) preparation should focus on maximizing its assets and capabilities before a large-scale physical return to campus.

   Student/Patient Care Considerations

   • Recommend students to wear face covering when unvaccinated
   • Develop processes to limit student contact with SHS computer/keypads and update triage protocols and screening forms to include COVID-19 symptoms
   • Have students submit immunization documents in the document upload portal
   • Provide students with options for telemedicine or telephone consults when appropriate
   • Screen students/staff for respiratory symptoms and check temperature (infrared or laser devices) before entering SHS, and develop a plan for individuals who may need a higher level of care with local emergency hospitals
   • Develop a plan for future mass immunization with MMR, influenza, and COVID-19 vaccines, when available – identifying needed supplies
   • Develop a plan with campus communication with as many entities as possible, outlining key messages such as how to access care and schedule appointments in-person versus virtual – using a variety of platforms including websites, social media, and signage

2. Gender Resources

   Gender Resources is expected to follow a blended schedule combining remote and in-person work during Spring 2023. Gender Resources will rotate with other professional and administrative staff within the Health and Wellness Services suite in Marshak J14-15. The suite will be open in person Monday thru Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm and remotely on Friday 9:00am-5:00pm. Gender Resources will work in person Monday and Thursday and remotely Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm. This schedule is dependent upon safety conditions and front desk coverage. In addition, this schedule may be adjusted as needed.

   Gender Resources will continue to provide crisis support, counseling and resources to the LGBTQIA+ community, survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, stalking, and interpersonal violence. Gender Resources collaborates with campus partners including the Gender-Based Violence Awareness and Prevention (GAP) Alliance, Office of Diversity and Compliance and community-based organizations to develop campus-wide educational programing specific to sexual violence prevention and awareness, gender identity/expression and sexuality.

   Programs and clinical services will continue throughout the Spring 2023 semester utilizing phone, zoom, and virtual platforms.

   Clinical Confidential Services:

   • Crisis support and safety planning
   • Short term supportive counseling
   • Referral and linkage to community resources
   • Support with name and gender updates
   • Title IX reporting options

   Outreach and Educational Programming

   • Psychoeducational workshops and events honoring Domestic Violence Awareness and Sexual Assault Awareness Month
   • Trauma Informed Yoga
   • Annual Coming Out Week Celebration
   • Trans Awareness Day of Remembrance Vigil
   • 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign
   • Trainings: Sexual Violence Awareness and Prevention, Adult Sex Ed and Safe Zone
   • Social media engagement: Follow us on Instagram @genderresourcesccny

   To get involved, join the CCNY's Gender-Based Violence Awareness and Prevention (GAP) Alliance. For questions and information about services, contact us at genderresources@ccny.cuny.edu

3. CCNY Wellness Resources:

   Trauma Informed Yoga​: Term 2 May 4- July 25th 2021
   CUNY Mindfulness Meditation Program
   Text CUNY to 741741 to text confidentially with a trained Crisis Counselor for free, 24/7

4. Gender-Based Violence Resources:

   CCNY #SexualAssaultAwarenessMonth ToolKit
   CUNY Student Bill of Rights
   Resources for Survivors of Sexual Violence

5. Accessibility Center/Student Disability Services:

   The AccessAbility Center/Student Disability Services will operate in-person Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm. AAC/SDS will provide services, both in-person and remotely, to students with disabilities. Staff members will be able to meet with students in-person as well as remotely, while in the office. Stations will be set up in the office for student who are on campus to meet with staff members, who are working remotely.

   Services will include the provision of accommodations and light counseling services. In the event the counseling services needed are beyond the scope of what AAC/SDS is able to provide, students will be referred to The Counseling Center. Students experiencing mental health crises will also be referred to the counseling services.

Part V: Enforcement, Assessment and Conflict Resolution

This section of the COVID-19 plan describes policies for ensuring compliance with COVID-19 related Health and Safety Procedures.

The City College of New York is committed to providing an excellent education for every student in an environment that maintains the health, safety and well-being of our entire campus community. Health and safety is a responsibility shared by the College community, including students, employees, contractors, vendors and visitors to the campus.

It is critically important that everyone who comes to the campus is familiar with all COVID-19 policies and protocols related to health and safety, and adheres to these policies, so that we can remain safe while on campus. Additionally, as these guidelines are continually being reviewed and updated, please regularly check the CCNY website and your email for any new information.

Until further notice, all members of the College community are subject to these policies and protocols when on campus, and are expected to comply to keep the campus safe. The College's goal is to support adherence—by everyone on campus— to our policies and protocols on matters such as face coverings and physical distancing, among other things. The primary method of achieving the goals is by educating the campus community through the CCNY website, signage throughout our campus, and other forms of communication.

1. Compliance

   Individuals who fail to comply with established policies and procedures will be referred to the relevant College Office – e.g., Public Safety, Student Affairs or Human Resources (HR) – for appropriate action.

   1. All employees, students, contractors and visitors to the campus will require valid identification to enter a campus building. Entry into buildings continues to be regulated by Public Safety. Vendors/Visitors to the College will be required to have an appointment in order to enter a campus building

   All are required to wear acceptable face coverings when inside the campus buildings if unvaccinated, unless an individual is alone inside a private office or other enclosed space. Acceptable face coverings for COVID-19 include but are not limited to cloth-based face coverings and surgical masks. Masks with valves are not acceptable.

   1. 1. Unvaccinated individuals on campus grounds are encouraged to wear acceptable face coverings outdoors whenever they cannot maintain a distance of at least six feet from others.
      2. Unvaccinated employees who claim that they are unable to wear an acceptable face covering due to a disability will be immediately referred to Human Resources for follow-up. An appointment with HR will be required. Similarly, students will be directed to Student Affairs
      3. Everyone will be expected to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, or will be expected to use the inside of their elbow—even when wearing a mask. Used/soiled tissues must be discarded appropriately.
      4. All individuals on campus are required to follow posted signage.

   Provided below are reporting and response procedures that will guide the College in addressing allegations of non-adherence to the College's health and safety policies and protocols.

2. Reporting

   Complaints and concerns related to non-adherence can be reported in a variety of ways:

   1. Staff report concerns to their Supervisor
   2. Faculty report concerns to their Department Chair or Dean
   3. Students report concerns to the Division of Student Affairs
   4. All Members of the Campus Community, including vendors, contractors and visitors report concerns to the Department of Public Safety if they are unable to report issues in the steps above:
      • Telephone (212) 650-6911
      • Email publicsafety@ccny.cuny.edu
   5. Faculty and Staff report concerns to Human Resources:
      • Telephone (212) 650-7226
      • Email humanresources@ccny.cuny.edu
      • Report concerns using FORM (Weblink).

3. Addressing Non-adherence

   In the interest of the health and safety of the campus community including students, faculty, staff, contractors, vendors and visitors to the College, anyone who fails to adhere to the policies and protocols established to protect the well-being of the College community – after being advised to do so by an appropriate authority – will be asked to leave the City College campus by Public Safety.

4. Receiving complaints and informal resolution

   Supervisors, Departmental Administrators, Student Affairs, Public Safety and Human Resources have the responsibility to do the following:

   1. Receive concerns or complaints
   2. Address directly the people involved by attempting to determine what occurred
   3. Seek to resolve informally, with education to reinforce understanding of expectations related to policy adherence. For example, a departmental office will provide disposable face coverings as needed to enable policy adherence
   4. Seek assistance from senior supervisors, department administrators, Public Safety, Student Affairs and/or HR as needed and as would be done for other concerns and complaints.

5. Refusals to adhere to policy and repeated complaints

   If an individual refuses to adhere to the College's policies and protocols for health and safety after being asked to do so by an authorized staff member (see individual roles identified above), that staff member shall inform the individual that they must leave campus immediately and if they refuse to leave, Public Safety should be notified.

   1. For employees who are expected to conduct their work on campus, time away as a result of a required departure from campus will be counted against time and leave balances, as appropriate
   2. Students will be referred to the Office of Student Affairs and will have to meet with the Director of Community Standards
   3. Public Safety

      § Entry may be denied under Henderson Rule #2: "Individuals are liable for failure to comply with lawful directions issued by representatives of the University College when they are acting in their official capacities. Members of the academic community are required to show their identification cards when requested to do so by an official of the college."

      Incident Report filed

      § Referral to Student Affairs or Human Resources for follow-up

      § If necessary, appropriate application of NYC Health Code Section 11.31: Acts likely to spread disease prohibited. https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/newyorkcity/latest/NYCrules/0-0-0-44461

      4. Student Affairs

      § Counseling

      § If necessary, appropriate application of the Henderson Rules and applicable CUNY and College policies and procedures.

      5. Human Resources

      § Counseling

      § If necessary, appropriate progressive disciplinary measures in accordance with applicable collective bargaining agreements and CUNY and College policies and procedures.

      Additional Campus Resources

      It is important to note that it is normal to experience a range of emotional reactions to the evolving global health situation. It may be the case that the related stress might be interfering with an individual's relationships, studies, work and daily life and consequently their ability to cope in a reasonable and professional manner. If it is determined that this is the case, resources are available to assist these individuals. (Note: a referral to the resources below will not necessarily preclude the need for punitive action.)

      • Students should contact the Division of Student Affairs at (212) 650-5426 or studentaffairs@ccny.cuny.edu
      • Employees should contact CUNY's Employee Assistance Provider at (800) 833-8707, www.myccaonline.com Company Code: CUNY

      References:
      https://www.cuny.edu/coronavirus/reopening-guidelines/guideline-safe-campus-reopening/
      https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid-19-main.page
      https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/about/healthcode/health-code-article11.pdf
      https://sla.ny.gov/MandatoryFaceCoverings

Part VI: The Towers at City College Fall 2022 Dorm Plan

Occupancy and Physical Preparation

Note: All policies and procedures will align with guidance from CCNY, CUNY, the City of New York and New York State.

Housing Assignments

• Prior to occupation, all areas have been cleaned and appropriately sanitized. Every apartment was professionally cleaned.
• Maintenance has been running the water on all floors to make sure that there is no stagnant water
• Staff is currently working on getting housing licenses signed for the upcoming academic year.
  • Current projected Fall Occupancy is around 400-500 residents; approximately eighty percent of the bed spaces.
• Each occupant will be in a single or double occupancy bedroom and will share a common space with up to three other occupants where there is 1-2 bathrooms, a kitchen and living room. All occupants that notify the Towers management of compromised immunity or underlying conditions will receive a room with an individual bathroom, kitchen and living space
  • Current occupancy offers 589 student bed spaces
  • Automatic doors are installed at the Tower entrance that students enter using their RFID badge.

Common Areas/Capacity Limits

• Access will no longer be restricted in common areas
  • Furniture will be reintroduced to common areas as all residents will be required to be vaccinated, reducing the need for social distancing
  • Reservation system will no longer be required for use of amenities, but will remain available to allow residents to ensure access to limited equipment such as ovens in the kitchen
  • Fitness Room will be open to all vaccinated residents without limitation
    • Maximum use of 12 people at one time per FDNY guidelines
    • Anyone utilizing the fitness room will be required to use the provided sanitary wipes to clean all used equipment after use or each piece of equipment
• All amenities will be cleaned daily by staff, but residents who utilize amenities should make efforts to clean up after themselves
• Guidelines for each amenity should be followed and are available in the reservation system
• Pool table, ping pong table, and foosball table will be open for resident use
• Common spaces will be cleaned frequently daily.
• Office Visits We can accommodate walk-ins, phone calls and emails. They may call (917) 507-0070 to speak to someone from 9am-5pm each weekday or email towers@ccny.cuny.edu . If making a payment via check, you can place it in the mail slot to the left of the office door.

Community Development/Programming

• All trainings and programming will be allowed to exist in person as all residents will be required to be vaccinated. Online/virtual options may still be available for certain events.
• Residents will be required to wear masks during these events.

Guests

• Residents will be permitted to have guests under the following guidance
  • Residents can host no more than two guests at one time
  • Suites can hold no more than ten people at one time
  • Residents may not host a guest for more than three consecutive nights or twelve nights in a calendar month
  • Residents are responsible for their guests
  • Guests must leave a government-issued ID with the courtesy officer while in the Towers
  • Guests must prove their vaccination status either through a copy of their vaccination card, which must match the name on their ID, or Cleared4 (will be in line with CUNY/CCNY guidelines as appropriate)
• Rounds to verify resident behavior should continue.

Operational Preparation

Staffing

• Front office is staffed from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday. Live-in staff are on-call as needed
• Staff have returned to the office and no longer work remotely
• Sneeze guards will remain installed at the front desk, and other spacing aids such as floor stickers have been implemented for encouraging social distancing while waiting for packages or the elevators
• Staff has taken an online course that shows proper usage of PPE, which will be kept on hand in case of an emergency
• Maintenance Staff, consisting of the Assistant Director, Tech, and one (1) Custodian perform all preventive and as-needed maintenance and custodial tasks
• RA Staff responsibilities will be altered to keep up with the current times
  • More in-person interaction will be expected from the RA staff
  • Confronting incidents will return to being addressed in person in the space where an incident is occurring
  • Roommate agreements will be able to create in person with virtual options

Employee COVID Prevention Measures

All Towers employees will need to show proof of vaccination per the guidance of the NYC Mayor

• • COVID-19: Vaccination Workplace Requirement - NYC Health
  • If an employee is not feeling well, they should not report to work and should notify their supervisor.
  • If an employee has any symptoms or an elevated temperature, they will be required to return to their apartment immediately and self-quarantine. They can return to the office when:
    • They have not had a fever for at least three (3) days without taking medication to reduce fever during that time; AND
    • Any respiratory symptoms (cough and shortness of breath) have improved; AND
    • At least five (5) days per current CDC guidelines have passed since the symptoms began. OR
    • They may return to the office earlier if results are "negative' from a COVID-19 test or a doctor confirms the cause of their fever or other symptoms is not related to COVID-19 and releases them, in writing, to return to the office.
    • Please note this section will change per the changing CDC guidelines.

  Vendor Screening Program

  • Vendors were sent an advance letter informing them that all vendors on site will be required to do a COVID-19 Screening before entering the building
  • Upon arriving on site, all vendors must check their temperature and fill out a Vendor COVID-19 Symptoms Screening Form:
    • If they take the survey, their temperature, and have no symptoms their completed form will be stored securely at the front desk and they will be given a wrist band for the day.
    • If a vendor has any symptoms or an elevated temperature, they will be required to leave the site immediately. They can return to the worksite when:
      • They have not had a fever for at least three (3) days without taking medication to reduce fever during that time; AND
      • Any respiratory symptoms (cough and shortness of breath) have improved; AND
      • At least five (5) days have passed since the symptoms began. OR
      • They may return to the worksite earlier if results are "negative' from a COVID-19 test or a doctor confirms that the cause of their fever or other symptoms is not COVID-19-related and releases them, in writing, to return to the worksite.

  Security

  • Security Vendor, Allied, staffs the courtesy desk 24/7.
  • Sneeze guard will remain installed for the front desk
  • All residents will continue to use an access card to enter the building

  Cleaning

  In addition to increased use of PPE, enhanced cleaning and disinfecting has been recommended as a way to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. This has resulted in changing the cleaning cycle at sites to allow for more regular cleaning of high touch areas, such as doorknobs and elevators. Details of the enhanced cleaning schedule can be found in Appendix B. of the Towers COVID-19 Response Manual. Additional hand sanitizer stations have also been installed throughout the site for resident and staff use throughout the building. Also, to limit resident interaction, common area spaces have been closed where possible.

  • All rooms will be professionally deep cleaned in preparation for the Spring semester
  • Ongoing cleaning is covered by contracted custodians (wiping down the public areas throughout the dayelevators, stairwells, lobby, laundry room, and lounges about every 4 hours)
  • Cleaning staff will use EPA approved cleaning supplies and follow CDC guidelines for cleaning
  • Cleaning staff will conduct frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as doors, stairwells, handles, light switches, and elevator buttons
  • Wipes and cleaning supplies will be provided in common areas such as the game room, laundry room, fitness room, and kitchen.
  • If an area is known to have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, the area will be sectioned off if possible, for at least 24 hours. Cleaning staff with appropriate PPE will disinfect the area according to CDC guidelines
  • All bathrooms that are shared will be cleaned at least twice per day or will be closed for use.

  Move-In Logistics

  • Spring Move-In is scheduled for Saturday August, 20, 2022. 
    • Academic classes begin Thursday August 25 giving new residents a couple of days to get settled in their rooms and set up their distance learning study areas in their apartments.
  • Cardboard Move-In Carts
    • This will be provided
  • Elevator usage up to two families at a time

  Additional Move-In Safety Measures

  • Purell hand sanitizer stations located by the elevators on every floor
  • Plexiglass barrier at the front desk and in the office

  Quarantine/Isolation Requirements for Residents with Symptoms

  Preparation of Isolation Spaces

  • Additional apartments on the 10th floor will remain empty for use as quarantined spaces if any resident should show signs of sickness or report exposure to COVID-19:
    • Cleaning kits and a thermometer have been created to give to residents who need to be quarantined
    • Office staff will assist in deliveries of food and packages to quarantined residents while maintaining no-contact social distancing and wearing proper PPE when necessary
    • Staff will work with quarantined residents to properly report information to CCNY, CUNY, and the NYS Health Department. Office Staff will also work with the residents to help with contact tracing leading up to their showing symptoms
    • Emergency transportation to healthcare facilities will be coordinated with CCNY through CCNY Student Affairs, Wendy Thornton in accordance with our Transportation Protocol.
  • Any student who becomes ill with COVID-19 symptoms while staying at the Towers will report to Towers management at (917) 507-0070 and will follow Quarantine or Isolation protocols in accordance with CDC guidelines
  • Students under quarantine or isolation will be moved to a separate floor where they will have their own bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and living space and can completely isolate from the remaining population
  • Students who become exposed to someone who tests positive for COVID-19 will follow Quarantine protocols in accordance with CDC guidelines and be moved to a quarantine/isolation room
  • CCNY will provide Psychological and academic support to isolated and quarantined residence through Student Services, contact AVP Wendy Thornton

  Building Closure Move-Out Guidelines and Procedures

  In the event that the building needs to be closed, this determination will be made by directives from the state, CUNY Leadership, and CCNY Senior Leadership team.

  Health Safety

  Vaccination

  • New York State Governor Kathy Hochul reinforces previous New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo's directive that all students attending in-person classes at Colleges and Universities in the State of New York will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The Board of Trustees for the City University of New York voted in support of this declaration at their meeting on Tuesday, July 6, 2021. In addition to that, the Board of Trustees clarified the statement to include that ALL students living in campus housing will need to be fully vaccinated and submit proof of vaccination to the Student Health Services office on their respective campus by Tuesday, August 10, 2021. The staff in our Student Health Services office will be validating our move-in roster to verify that all residents have provided the necessary documentation. The goal is to ensure that all vaccinated students will have two weeks post-vaccination providing maximum immunity support against the virus before arriving to campus. The COVID-19 vaccination requirement will continue into Spring 2023 per CUNY guidelines.

  Testing & Screening

  COVID-19 testing will be provided for all CUNY students and residents. For more information about CUNY's COVID-19 testing program, please see the Testing FAQ ( https://www.cuny.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-testing-program-facultyandsta… ) . For a list of testing locations, visit here ( https://www.cuny.edu/coronavirus/cuny-covid-19-testing-site-locations/ ). For general frequently asked questions, please refer to the Getting Back to Working in Person FAQ. If you still have questions, please contact your HR office.

  Face Coverings and Other PPE

  • Staff has taken an online course that shows proper usage of PPE, which will be kept on hand in case of an emergency
  • Single-use face coverings will be available in the Towers office if needed
  • Maintenance staff will have full PPE including face coverings, gloves, gowns, and disposable shoes available as needed

  Health Education and Other Resources

  • Weekly newsletter will continue to provide information about best practices in being healthy during the pandemic
  • Markers have been placed on the ground to encourage safe distances to be maintained while waiting for packages or to speak to someone at the front desk, etc.
  • Hand Sanitizer stations have been placed in common areas throughout the building
  • Signage, reminding students of proper hygiene have been placed in highly visible areas both in common spaces and in hallways leading to resident rooms

  COVID-19 Prevention information will be shared through newsletters, signage and other communications platforms and will be updated as appropriate and necessary.

  Additional Resources from The Towers and COCM

  Amended Rules and Regulations

  • Refusal to adhere to the policy addendum will result in a disciplinary hearing, and continued refusal to comply can result in removal from The Towers without a refund
  • Addendum includes the following amendments:
    • Vaccines: New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that all students attending in-person classes at Colleges and Universities in the State of New York will be required to be fully vaccinated against CoVID-19.  The Board of Trustees for the City University of New York voted in support of this declaration at their meeting on Tuesday, July 6, 2021.  In addition to that, the Board of Trustees clarified the statement to include that ALL students living in campus housing will need to be fully vaccinated and submit proof of vaccination to the Student Health Services office on their respective campus by Tuesday, August 10, 2021. The staff in our Student Health Services office will be validating our move-in roster to verify that all residents have provided the necessary documentation. The goal is to ensure that all vaccinated students will have two weeks post-vaccination providing maximum immunity support against the virus before arriving to campus.
    • Anyone who has opted to not get the vaccine for any reason or who refuses to sign the Addendum will not be permitted to reside in The Towers in Spring 2023. They may request to cancel their housing license agreement by e-mailing our office ( towers@ccny.cuny.edu ).
    • Illness: If you are feeling ill and suspect that you may have COVID-19, report this to The Towers immediately. You will be asked to quarantine in your room for 10 days and we will report this to City College of New York, in order to collaborate to provide you with additional support as is necessary
    • Testing: COVID-19 testing will be provided for all CUNY students and residents. For more information about CUNY's COVID-19 testing program, please see the Testing FAQ( https://www.cuny.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-testing-program-facultyandsta… )

• Access to the CCNY Campus: All vaccinated fully (in compliance with booster requirements) residents will have full access to the open areas CCNY campus
• Access to the Towers: Only residents and authorized personnel will have access to the Towers building. Visitors are allowed with the following guidance:
  • Residents can host no more than two guests at one time
  • Suites can hold no more than ten people at one time
  • Residents may not host a guest for more than three consecutive nights or twelve nights in a calendar month
  • Residents are responsible for their guests
  • Guests must leave a government-issued ID with the courtesy officer while in the Towers
  • Guests must prove their vaccination status either through a copy of their vaccination card, which must match the name on their ID, or the Excelsior Pass (will be in line with CUNY/CCNY guidelines as appropriate)

Anyone in violation of this guidance will be removed immediately or will be denied access.

Housing License COVID-19 Addendum

This Housing License Agreement Addendum ("License Addendum") is hereby made a part of the Housing License Agreement ("License Agreement") by and between Educational Housing Services, Inc. ("Owner"), Capstone On-Campus Management, LLC ("Agent"), and the Eligible Student Applicant listed above ("Resident") in regards to the premises identified as the residential housing facility on the campus of City College of New York (the "School") located at 401 West 130th Street, New York, New York 10027 (the "Project").

RESIDENT'S OBLIGATIONS

Agent and Resident agree and acknowledge that, in the event the Project is closed as a measure to control the spread of and protect students from the COVID-19 virus, then housing fees and charges accruing under the License Agreement shall be waived and abated until the Project is deemed safe to reopen and for Residents to physically occupy. Physical occupancy of the Project is determined separately from in person classes or campus physically reopening and will be the standard this addendum recognizes.
Notwithstanding anything in the License Agreement to the contrary, and in consideration of the effects of COVID-19 on the project's operations, Resident's obligations regarding the payment of housing fees shall not commence until the earlier of the Resident taking possession of the unit, or the Project resuming normal operations (including, but not limited to, reopening of the project and allowing residents to take possession of the unit). A Resident choosing not to move in once eligible remains responsible for the terms outlined in the License Agreement.

GOVERNMENTAL AND CUNY/CCNY GUIDELINES

Resident agrees, when on the Premises, to follow all federal (including the CDC), state, and local guidelines and recommendations regarding social distancing, hygiene, and the use of face masks/coverings, as well as all CUNY/CCNY and community specific guidelines and requirements regarding the same.

AGENT'S REQUIREMENTS

Resident agrees to follow all of Agent's guidelines and requirements regarding the use and maintenance of the Premises (including Resident's Bedroom, Suite, and Common Areas), including, without limitation, performing additional sanitation and hygiene measures, maintaining social distancing requirements, meeting face mask/covering requirements, abiding by limitations on gatherings, maintenance and use of elevators, maintenance and use of Common Areas, maintenance and use of shared equipment, and access to the Premises.

NOTICE TO AGENT

Resident hereby agrees to notify Agent in writing within 24 hours or sooner in the event that Resident or any guest of Resident is diagnosed with COVID-19, subject to applicable privacy laws.

WAIVER

Resident waives, for Resident and Resident's executors, administrators, heirs and assigns, any and all rights and claims which Resident, individually or jointly, may have or which may hereafter arise against Agent, Owner, School, and any of Agent's, Owner's, and/or School's members, directors, officers, employees, contractors, agents, successors and assigns, for damages, losses, demands and any other actions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including but not limited to any and all injuries, damages or illnesses suffered by Resident, which may, directly, indirectly or in any way whatsoever, arise out of, be proximately caused by, related to or connected with Resident's use of, or presence in, the Premises.

EARLY TERMINATION

Resident acknowledges that Agent may be required to terminate the License Agreement prior to the Agreement Expiration Date pursuant to federal, state, local or CUNY/CCNY mandate. Resident agrees that, in the event that the License Agreement is terminated prior to the Agreement Expiration Date, the provisions of the License Agreement (including any new guidelines provided to Resident related to required move out procedures and timelines) will apply in full force and effect.

RESIDENT'S RIGHT TO CANCELLATION:

Notwithstanding anything in the License Agreement to the contrary, in the event the Project has not resumed normal operations by August 1, 2022, Resident has the right to cancel the License Agreement upon providing Agent with written request of cancellation by August 1, 2022 to towers@ccny.cuny.edu . Requests to cancel this License Agreement that are received in writing due to the effects of COVID-19 on the project's operations will be approved with forfeiture of the $25.00 application fee and refund of the $400 reservation fee.

If the project has resumed normal operations by August 1, 2022, the resident will be responsible for all the terms in their License Agreement for the full term of the housing License Agreement. If the project has resumed normal operations after August 1, 2022 but before January 4, 2022, the Resident will be responsible for the terms for Spring Semester in their License Agreement. In either case, Addendum only covers residents who are not able to take occupancy due to the Project not being open, not residents that choose not to take occupancy.

GENERAL

Resident acknowledges that no other oral or written Agreement exists regarding the matters discussed herein. Except for special provisions noted above, Agent's representative has no authority to modify this Addendum or the License Agreement except in writing. All other terms and conditions of the License Agreement shall remain in full force and effect unless expressly modified herein.

PARTIES

The parties acknowledge and agree that this addendum is between the Resident and Agent and shall be binding upon their heirs, legal representatives, successors, and assigns. Except as contemplated by this addendum, the License Agreement shall remain in full force and effect as between the Parties. To the extent any part of this Addendum is unenforceable, the remainder of the Addendum shall remain in full force and effect. This Addendum is in addition to and made part of the License Agreement and in the event there is any conflict between the License Agreement and this Addendum, the provisions of this Addendum shall govern any term that is capitalized but not defined in this Addendum. Any term that is capitalized and defined in the License Agreement shall have the same meaning for purposes of this Addendum as it has for purposes of the License Agreement. To the extent that the terms of this Addendum conflict with the terms of the Housing License Agreement, the terms of this Addendum shall control. This Addendum may be executed in one or more counterparts by original, facsimile, or electronic signature, each of which shall be deemed to be an original copy of this addendum and all of which, when taken together, shall be deemed to constitute one and the same Addendum. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of New York.

(Please read entire letter carefully)

Dear {First Name} {Last Name}

Greetings from The Towers at CCNY! The Towers staff members are eager to meet and welcome you to The Towers on our official Fall 2022 Move-in Day - Saturday, August 20, 2022. -

We realize that moving raises many questions for you. To ease your transition to living in the Towers, we would like to give you some information that should help answer many of your questions. This letter includes information about your room assignment, how to access your roommates’ contact information, and other materials that will help you in your transition. You may also visit our move-in website https://towersmovein-fall2022.weebly.com/ for more information .

A. Room Assignment

You are assigned to room {Unit} on floor {Floor}. Please note that your room assignment may change due to conduct, ADA accommodation, maintenance, and other emergency needs. You will be notified immediately of any assignment changes. In addition, please note, we will NOT permit any room changes during the first 3 weeks after move-in day. (August 20th- September 11th) Any request for room changes, must be submitted via the Room Change Request Form

Your Mailing Address

{First Name} {Last Name}

Unit {Unit}

The Towers at CCNY

401 W 130th Street

New York, New York 10027

 

B. Roommate and Student Information

You will be able to access your roommate information by signing into the Resident Portal. Instructions to access the portal can be found on our website ccnytowers.com then click on the “resident portal” tab. You can also access the following documents on the “forms” tab on our website:

• List of Items to Bring

• Registering for the Towers Portal (You will be able to access the Resident Portal starting August 15, 2022) If we are able to grant you access sooner, we will inform you via email.

C. Check In

Requirement for check-in:

You will not be allowed to check in without your COVID vaccination card and a negative COVID PCR test. We strongly suggest you bring a printout (physical) copy of your PCR results. However, we will also accept digital results.

 

As a reminder, ALL students living in campus housing must be fully vaccinated and submit proof of vaccination. If you have not done so, please upload your vaccination card here: https://tinyurl.com/3dajz9b7

For more information about CUNY’s COVID-19 testing program, please see the Testing FAQ ( https://www.cuny.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-testing-program-facultyandstaff-faq/ ). For a list of testing locations, visit here( https://www.cuny.edu/coronavirus/cuny-covid-19-testing-site-locations/ ).

Please plan to arrive at the residence hall on Saturday, August 20, 2022 between the hours of 8AM-4PM. Please note that if you arrive earlier the check-in time you may be required to wait until the designated time. We are not able to offer any earlier check-in opportunities; however, residents may check-in later than the designated move-in dates.

Your reserved time to check in time block is {Status}

****On Saturday, August 20th, we will not permit any students to check in after 5:00pm. Check in will reopen on Monday, August 24th at 10am.*** *

THE LOGISTICS

Unloading Your Belongings: Please come south on St. Nicholas Terrace (between 130^th and 135^th Street). Limited street parking is available on St. Nicholas Terrace and in the surrounding area. However, please be mindful of street parking rules.

When You Arrive on Move-In Day: Proceed to the entrance of the building where a staff member will be waiting to check you in. You are required to have photo identification with you in order to check-in. ***Please arrive with your COVID vaccination card and or negative COVID test.***

Once you've received your keys, you will be able to sign-out a moving bin to assist you with transporting your belongings. Failure to return the cart to the breakdown station will result in a $60 charge to your account. It is also advisable that you bring your own hand truck or dolly.

You will have 45 minutes to unload your items and take them up to your room. After 45 minutes have passed, you will need to move your car to a designated lot. Once you have moved into the designated lot, you will have to move your car from the lot by 7pm.

The Towers staff will be there to greet you and your family as you arrive on-campus. However, volunteers and staff exercise the option to assist you in unloading belongings.

We encourage residents to have two guests at a time in the building to assist with keeping the move-in experience safer in your new community.

Please note: Guests are encouraged to wear a mask while inside the building.

Elevators will be used to carry students and family directly to their designated floor. You may be asked to take the stairs back down from your room in order to bring more families up the elevators quickly.

NOTE: You are NOT required to move-in on the designated date, You can move-in any day, Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm, starting Monday, August 22, 2022. Please notify The Towers Office via e-mail at towers@ccny.cuny.edu to let us know if you will be checking in late.

D. Mailing Information

Your mailing address is listed above in section A. If you are shipping some of your belongings, please schedule them to arrive on or after the day you that you move-in. The mail room will not receive packages prior to August 20, 2022, due to space constraints.

E. Quiet Floor update: We understand that there were requests to live on a quiet floor. However, we have had an increased demand for housing this year. As a result, we are unable to designate a quiet floor at this time. We encourage all Towers residents to observe the 24-hour courtesy hour rule as stated in the Towers Resident Handbook:

Excessive noise is not allowed and courtesy hours are always in effect. Noisy or disruptive behaviors which interfere with another person’s or a group’s free exercise of academic or personal pursuits or their ability to sleep or study, including music, television, or other electronic equipment playing at high volume, excessive yelling, music practice, violations of established floor/hall quiet hours, large gatherings, and other types of noise are prohibited and will not be tolerated. If a student has a problem with noise, the student is encouraged to talk to the other student(s) who are creating the noise. If noise continues, then the student should contact The Office of Housing and Residence to request assistance.

F. Payment Information

If you are on a semester payment plan , please submit your entire semester cost on or before August 1st.

If you signed up for the installment plan, your first two installments must be made prior to move-in. The installment plan is your housing semester cost divided into five (5) payments. Payment prior to move-in can be mailed to 401 W 130th Street, New York, NY 10027. It can also be submitted in-person to our office. Payment can be in the form of a personal check, money order or bank check. Cash is not accepted. If you are making payment on move-in day, payment must be in a form of certified funds for money order. Payment should be made payable to “The Towers at CCNY.” -

If you signed up for the financial aid deferment plan you will be required to submit an Anticipated Financial Aid Verification Form. This must be filled out by your school’s Financial Aid Department. You can access this form by visiting move-in website https://towersmovein-fall2022.weebly.com/ .Once it is completed, a copy can be faxed to 929.588.2119, mailed to our address: 401 W 130th Street, New York, NY 10027, or you can submit it to our office. Once completed, you will return this form to our office. If the aid is not enough to cover, you will be required to make out-of-pocket payments. If you are choosing this option, you will be required to submit the forms on or before August 1st for the Fall semester and on or before January 1st for the Spring semester. If you do not have enough aid to cover your housing cost, you will be required to make an out-of-pocket payment.

If you have any questions -please do not hesitate to contact our office. You can reach us at (917) 507-0070 or via email at towers@ccny.cuny.edu .

The Towers community looks forward to welcoming you! In the meantime, feel free to check out our online community at www.facebook.com/thetowersatccny , Instagram: @ccnytowers, Twitter: @ccnytowers .

***Please note: this letter was only sent to you the Resident. We would recommend that you forward a copy to your parent and/or guarantor.***