UTEP will close during day of pope’s visit to Juarez

UTEP will close during day of pope’s visit to Juarez on Feb. 17, university officials said Friday.

In letter sent to faculty, staff and students, UTEP officials said that in order “to manage anticipated pedestrian and vehicular traffic and ensure the safety and security of our students, faculty and staff, UTEP will close on Wednesday, February 17.

The letter also said the Catholic Diocese of El Paso has requested use of the Sun Bowl Stadium for a live feed broadcast of the pope’s Mass to enable the participation of residents on both sides of the border.

Some UTEP facilities described as critical will remain open, including support personnel and the UTEP Police Department. Those employees are advised to check with their supervisors regarding work schedules.

Also, to fulfill the Spring 2016 semester’s required instructional time, the May 6 study day, or Dead Day prior to final exams, will now be a class day.

The university will resume normal operating hours on Thursday, Feb. 18.