The newly constructed West Orange-Cove CISD press box and event center encountered significant damage due to an incident involving a fire outside the press box. In the interest of complete transparency and after a thorough investigation, the cause of the fire was due to the sun reflecting off the angled glass of the press box onto the vinyl VIP seats. The corrosive fumes from the fire have affected all the soft spaces within the structures and will now require extensive renovation to ensure the safety and functionality of these facilities.
The event center will still be accessible for two events scheduled in early August. However, it will be inaccessible for at least four months after. Unfortunately, it is highly unlikely that they will be able to utilize these facilities for the upcoming 2023 football, volleyball, and basketball seasons.
The decision not to rush the restoration process stems from their commitment to ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all future events. Their primary concern is to prevent the recurrence of the burnt smell that may surface in the future.
There have been several inquiries regarding home football games. They will still play home games this season. The press box damage does not affect their ability to play on their home field.
WOCCISD will provide regular updates about the progress made and any changes to the anticipated timeline.
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