Updated COVID-19 Policies

November 5, 2020

Dear Residents,

From the outset of the Fall 2020 semester, we cautioned that policies and measures designed to keep MIT and neighboring community members safe could change depending on the trajectory of the pandemic.  To that end, we are writing to highlight updated policies from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, which take effect starting this Friday, November 6, at 12:01 am and impact several areas of our COVID-19 response. 

Here are the highlights:

  • Face Coverings are now required in all public spaces across Massachusetts, even if you are able to maintain six feet of physical distance from others, which is similar to the policy already in effect within the City of Cambridge.  While our current COVID-19 policies already require face coverings in all residential common spaces and public areas of campus, please make sure you’re wearing a face covering in all other public areas (on and off campus), regardless of physical distancing.  Failure to comply may result in a fine from Massachusetts of up to $300 and potential disciplinary action by the Institute.   
     
  • A Stay at Home Advisory has been issued between the hours of 10 pm and 5 am.  In general, this means you shouldn’t venture outside of your residence hall or apartment for non-essential purposes (i.e. social or recreational activities) during these hours.  The Advisory doesn’t apply to those who are commuting to class, lab or work, or who are picking up food or seeking medical care.  SafeRide shuttle services will remain available to members of the MIT community who are engaging in essential activities during these hours. The takeaway — if you’re about to leave home between 10 pm and 5 am, ask yourself, “Is this essential?”, and act accordingly.
     
  • Outdoor Space Capacity on campus will be limited to 25 people per space (down from 50).  In residential spaces, this includes outdoor courtyards and roof decks.  Please continue adhering to the posted capacity limits for each space which may be less than the 25-person max capacity allowed by the Commonwealth.  Gathering sizes in these spaces should not exceed MIT’s existing 10-person maximum.  
     
  • In-person Social Gatherings (indoor and outdoor) are contributing to increases in positive COVID-19 cases and the doubling of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) visits across the Commonwealth.  As a result, in-person gatherings will not be allowed beyond 9:30 pm and cannot exceed MIT's existing maximum gathering sizes (10 people outdoors, 6 indoors). Failure to comply with provisions set forth by the Executive Order may result in a fine from the Commonwealth of up to $500 and potential disciplinary action by the Institute.  
     
  • DAPER Facilities will close by 9:30 pm each day starting on Friday, November 6, to comply with provisions of the Commonwealth's order.  MIT Dining and on-campus food retail locations will operate under normal business hours.     

Thank you for your time and attention to this information.  As we adapt to this round of policy adjustments, we wanted to take a moment to express our deep appreciation and gratitude for your continued commitment to protecting the health and safety of MIT and surrounding communities. 

Sincerely,

JUDY ROBINSON
Senior Associate Dean
Residential Education

DAVID FRIEDRICH
Senior Associate Dean
Housing & Residential Services