The WVU Creative Arts Center will re-open Monday (Oct. 21) for classes and scheduled performances after a week’s closing.

During a shutdown last weekend to test new air handling equipment, a few air samples tested slightly higher than allowable standards for asbestos, so the facility remained closed for the safety of all.

“All affected areas have been thoroughly cleaned and new air samples taken,”said Dean Bernie Schultz.”The results of those tests are back and they were all clean. So, we’ll be back in business Monday.”

Schultz expressed his gratitude to all the professionals who have worked around the clock since Tuesday to get the facility ready for re-occupancy and also to the faculty, staff and students who were affected by the closing.

“Most everyone has been understanding and patient this week; many people have been inconvenienced by class and performance interruptions and I am sorry for that. Now it’s time to get back to what we do besteducating our students. I will be anxious to welcome everyone back on Monday.”

A project to renovate performance areas, upgrade the building’s sprinkler and fire alarm system, install a new air handling system and remove spray-on asbestos fireproofing from steel beams in some ceilings and hallways has been ongoing since June. The facility was closed over the summer for much of the work and reopened at the start of the fall semester; however, work continues.