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University takes steps to resolve code issues at Jorgensen

by Richard Veilleux - May 30, 2006



The Office of the State Fire Marshal recently issued an inspection report for the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts at the University of Connecticut.

The report included the findings of both the state fire marshal’s office and the University’s Office of the Fire Marshal and Building Inspector.

This is the first time an inspection report released by the Office of the State Fire Marshal incorporates findings from the University’s fire marshal, which has resulted in an increased number of code discrepancies from what had previously been reported.

The most recent inspection of the facility, conducted by members of the UConn fire marshal’s office, found a number of potential code discrepancies, most related to storage and other housekeeping conditions, many of which have been or will be remedied during the next few weeks.

Most of the items, UConn Fire Marshal Capt. Michael McGovern said, are not unusual in a more than half-century-old building.

The University is assembling a comprehensive plan to address all fire code violations found this spring in the theater during inspections completed by the state fire marshal and the University’s fire marshal.

More than one-third of the code discrepancies are expected to be addressed by mid-June.

Another portion of the repairs will be completed by the start of the academic year in September, with the remaining discrepancies requiring review by an architect prior to remediation.

The latter discrepancies, which involve the building’s sprinkler systems and stairwells, require design work and some renovations to the building’s interior.

The architectural firm Sviegals and Associates of New Haven has been hired to develop a detailed scope of work and a plan to correct these problems.

The plan to remediate all code discrepancies will be completed before the end of the year.

“We have already begun the process to remedy certain code discrepancies, such as clearing storage spaces, moving equipment that may limit the effectiveness of sprinklers, and completing minor electrical repairs,” said Barry Feldman, interim vice president and chief operating officer.

“None of Jorgensen’s scheduled events will be affected by the remedial work. The larger projects will be scheduled once we receive the architect’s report, and will be done during the summer months.”

A major renovation project for Jorgensen is currently scheduled for 2012 as part of the UConn 2000 program.  

      
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