Student and employee safety is our top concern and we understand the frustration that many on the Forty Acres feel about today’s weather-related delays.



We’re very sorry for any trouble, inconvenience or problems that our students and employees faced related to our decisions.



During a 3 a.m. call this morning with university leaders, local and school district officials and meteorologists, it appeared that conditions would be safe for the morning commute. It didn’t turn out that way.



The weather and road conditions deteriorated at rush hour and law enforcement warnings about driving increased during the morning. We responded by delaying the opening of campus and, finally, by canceling classes completely.



Although AISD announced a delay last night, our logistical needs are different than the school district’s needs and it looked as if we would be able to open safely.



We are always working to improve our processes and to learn from each incident. Clearly, that includes today’s episode.



Statement from The University of Texas at Austin. Jan. 28, 2014.