Live Oak Cultural Center closed for A/C remediation; to reopen by December 1

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

In a recent update from Rob Salazar, Leisure Service Director for the City of New Smyrna Beach, regarding the Live Oak Cultural Center, Salazar disclosed the status of the center's temporary closure, which began in late July 2023. Due to persisting air conditioning and temperature issues at the center, city staff has been in collaboration with TRANE to troubleshoot, repair, and procure necessary components to restore proper functionality to the air conditioning units.

Salazar also announced in his update that remediation of the Live Oak Cultural Center can begin on Friday, October 13, 2023. Once complete, an essential step will involve conducting an Air Quality Assessment to ensure the center meets safety standards for reopening. New Smyrna Beach aims to complete this assessment and reopen the center by December 1, 2023, although this date is subject to change based on remodeling and unforeseen challenges.

Furthermore, the closure of the Live Oak Cultural Center impacted the Council of Aging of Volusia County (COA), with the suspension of their congregate dining services and their Meals on Wheels program relocating to the Alonzo "Babe" James Community Center. New Smyrna Beach has been working on upgrades and necessary maintenance in the Multipurpose Room at the City Gym on Live Oak Street to reinstate the COA's congregate dining and other programs. Anticipated to be completed by the end of October, the multipurpose room will be made available to the COA, facilitating a seamless transition of their activities.