Boston outlines protocols for moving students into city neighborhoods

BOSTON, Mass. – City officials outlined protocols for students, families and Boston residents ahead of Labor Day and college move-in weekend.

Representatives from the city’s district, neighborhood and transportation services held a news conference Thursday in Allston, one of the busiest student areas.

Roads were packed Thursday with U-Haul vans, dumpsters and unwanted belongings littering the sidewalks.

Nicholas Gove, the city’s deputy director of transport, urged everyone on the roads this weekend to keep their eyes and ears open.

“Don’t stop in a fire lane, park in front of a fire hydrant or block access to a road,” Gove advised. “We must keep these spaces clear.”

He cited that approximately 3,400 moving permits were issued citywide. Construction in Brighton, Allston, Mission Hill and Kenmore/Fenway will be suspended this weekend due to high volume.

Gove continued: “We don’t want to ticket or tow your vehicle, so please pay attention to the signs. Don’t double park or block streets or intersections.”

City Fire Chief Colin Kelly expects an increase in fires this time of year.

“When children arrive in the fall, cooking fires increase by 38%,” Kelly added.

She also advised students and their roommates to keep in touch with their landlord, check that smoke detectors are working and create an emergency action plan.

Authorities urged residents to secure their trash in city containers to avoid rodents.

“Anything that could become a food source for rodents should be removed,” said John Ulrich, deputy commissioner of environmental services for the city. “If you need help, please contact Boston 311.”

The city’s 311 app and website answer questions residents or visitors may have about the city’s neighborhoods. Officials directed those with questions this weekend to their city.

Scheduled mattress pickups can be made at Boston.gov/mattresses.

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