At no charge to those students, Arkansas State University officials secured about 25 hotel rooms at Baymont Inn at 2910 Kazi St. in Jonesboro. Each room, which has two double beds, costs $52.95 plus tax per night, and some students have been staying there since Aug. 11.

Security was hired so personal belongings left in vehicles were safe from burglary, a common concern among travelers staying overnight in hotels and motels across the country. Many hotels post signs denying any responsibility for items left in parked vehicles.

With the basic needs of shelter and well guarded clothing covered, ASU provided for the basic need of food as well, giving the stranded students temporary meal plans until they are in the apartments and have cooking and refrigeration facilities. A shuttle service also was provided so those without vehicles could attend class.

Though the university may have been optimistic about the apartments’ completion date, it was well prepared for its incompletion and provided students with an alternative to sleeping on a friend’s floor. A hotel stay is a much better alternative to a residence hall computer lab as well.