Kentucky Center For The Performing Arts Announces Building Renovation Update

The aggressive work pace continues on the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts (KCA) building in preparation for shows to resume Sept. 1, after a major roof fire on June 13.

This week's progress update includes:

Plaster Removal from Barrel Ceiling: Plaster removal began July 23 and was completed today. Structural engineers have determined approximately 75% of the metal roof decking will need to be replaced. A full 3-D scan of the main metal roof super structure begins Aug. 13 and the overall analysis is estimated to take two weeks. Based on visual indications, the main damage seems to have occurred on the roof decking and roof covering, not the roof super structure.

Main Lobby Restroom: Reconstruction of the heavily damaged women's restroom began July 25. Finish work is expected to be completed by next week.

Temporary Floor Covering: Uneven and "sticky" floors resulting from carpet removal will be covered with a leveling material that will allow the Center to resume operations by Sept. 1 and prior to final carpet installation.

Temporary Fire and Life Safety Plan: The plan, for the period of time that scaffolding is up and construction continues, has been submitted to the state and local fire marshals. The plan designates specific staffing for crowd control and necessary egress routes in the event of an emergency.

Drywall and Soffit Work: Gypsum drywall removal in the main lobby area is complete. Drywall re-hanging has already started on the north end of the lobby. Painting is scheduled to begin late next week. Electrical work restoration will be completed prior to Sept. 1.

Bomhard Theater AV Control Room: Extensive water damage occurred in the audio/visual (AV) control room of the Bomhard Theater. The first show scheduled for the theater is Sept. 15 and work will be completed prior to that date.

Bomhard Theater Soffit: Extensive water damage occurred to a large expanse of soffit at the rear of the theater. Work begins Aug. 13 and will be completed prior to Sept. 15.

Barrel Vault Roof Replacement: Bid documents for replacing the outer layer of standing seam copper and internal decking are ready. The bid package will be issued once it is determined the super structure of the building has not been damaged. Roof replacement is currently scheduled to occur from late September through November.

The Kentucky Center Box Office: Patrons can continue to purchase tickets on-line using the Kentucky Center's website or in person using The Kentucky Center Drive-Thru Box Office. Drive-Thru hours are Monday - Friday, 11am - 6pm. Please note that the building remains closed to the public at this time, but the Kentucky Garage is open to the public.

Building Access: Access in the main lobby of the building continues to be limited to contractors and KCA employees. Administrative areas of the building are open to KCA employees and business guests.

The work of many partner companies and contractors is ensuring that this project is on target for the Sept. 1 resumption of shows in the main Whitney Hall. Work on the barrel vault roof and other areas of the center will continue for several months, most likely into early 2019.

The Finance and Administration Cabinet will provide regular updates and communications to the media and community as the process continues.