A community recreation center in Texas will remain closed after last month’s winter storm caused extensive damage to the facility.
The Smithville Recreation Center saw significant water damage last month, when pipes burst due to cold weather. The facility’s gym and weight room were both flooded.
According to the Austin American-Statesman, the water line breaks led to major leaks inside the recreation center, which has led to a lengthy assessment of the damage.
Three weeks after the flooding the facility remains closed.
“When the break was detected, we shut the water off and city crews worked on initial water cleanup and removal of stored items,” Recreation center director Ashley Garrison told the Statesman.
Now the facility’s reopening plan is depended on mold testing, which is being conducted by an environmental company.
“Once we get the results of this (mold) test, we will have a clearer projection of our opening date,” Garrison said. If mold is detected inside the center, remediation will need to be done before new flooring can be laid.
Smithville city manager Robert Tamble said damage to the facility is estimated between $25,000 and $30,000.
Tamble is applying for public assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. If approved, FEMA would reimburse 75 percent of repair costs.
