Steam is used to heat 25 buildings across campus. The current boilers in the heat plant have served the Boise State campus faithfully since the mid-1960s, but are well beyond their expected lifespan. The Capital Renewal Program provides an opportunity to replace the boilers and upgrade critical heat plant infrastructure. Additionally, this project improves safety for maintenance staff, reduces carbon emissions and ensures the steam system can serve campus for years to come.
The steam heating system will be shut down for an extended period of time. The current estimate is from April 28, 2025 to mid-October 2025. The steam system typically shuts down in early May and starts up in mid-September. This means that approximately 14 buildings that lack supplemental heating options may experience colder interior temperatures than normal. Please see the information below to determine if you will be impacted and what you can do to prepare.
What Buildings Will Be Impacted?
| Building | Steam-Only Heating (These areas have the greatest impact) | Localized/Supplemental Heating Available (These areas have reduced / no impact from the steam turnoff) |
|---|---|---|
| 005 – Hemmingway | Yes | |
| 007 – Campus School | Yes – West Wing | Yes – East Wing |
| 011 – Communications | Yes | |
| 015 – EMA | Yes | |
| 016 – SMASH | Yes | |
| 025 – Bronco Gym | Yes | This building is highly variable. Please work with your building coordinator on next steps. More details forthcoming. |
| 027 – Library | Yes – Library Main, World Languages | GIMM Lab Special Archives |
| 030 – Liberal Arts | Yes – West Wing | Yes – Maker Space Rm 163, elevator lobbies. |
| 032 – SUB | Yes | This building is highly variable, please work with your building coordinator on next steps. More details forthcoming. |
| 034 – Riverfront Hall | Yes | |
| 062 – SPEC | Yes | |
| 071 – Education | Yes | |
| 072 – Science | Yes – 4th Floor | Yes – Floors 1, 2, and 3 have reduced capacity heating. |
| 074 – Greenhouse | Yes (Reduced Capacity) |
*In addition to the list above, there are 11 other buildings on campus that utilize steam but have multiple heating systems, such as geothermal or local boilers. These buildings and their occupants are anticipated to experience minimal to no impact.
My Building Will Be Impacted, What Can I Do?
DO: Be gracious with facilities staff. We are working to minimize the impact as much as possible.
DO: Bring extra layers, a blanket and warm drinks.
DO: Plan ahead and work with your supervisor to explore opportunities for working and/or teaching remotely. Working remotely in the morning while buildings are colder may be a good solution if you can’t work from home all day. There are limited options for relocating activities on campus.