On June 13, 2023, and June 21, 2023, the University issued two Targeted Announcements confirming that both elevators at Lech Walesa Hall (LWH) will be out of service for repairs due to a faulty safety device. The device that controls the speed of the elevators needs to be replaced, “out of an abundance of caution” according to the June 21st statement.
In a statement to the Independent, NEIU Director of Marketing and Communications Christopher Childers said, “The elevators were shut down out of an abundance of caution.” KONE, the elevator company NEIU has contracted with, determined after an inspection that a mechanical part was faulty, rendering both elevators unsafe to operate.
The problem was discovered the week of June 12th. It took a week and half for the part to be ordered. As of June 29th the elevator has been successfully repaired.
Childers stated that testing and elevator maintenance will occur weekly for the next few years,“Although we can’t make any guarantees, we hope there will be few or no interruptions.”
According to a representative from Facilities Management, “Anyone with a disability that requires the use of the elevators, please work with your supervisor to decide if you will need to work from home or if you require any other accommodations.”
Safety and minimal disruptions are a top priority for the University administration according to Childers’ statement. If anyone has questions or concerns about the elevator repairs, they can contact Facilities Management at 773-442-5240 or [email protected].
