Brown University has closed Smith Swim Center as a precaution until the building’s original architect completes his analysis of its roof system.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Brown University announced today the closure of Smith Swim Center until further notice. The University made the decision as a precaution while the building’s original architect completes his independent analysis. The facility will remain closed until that analysis is complete.

The University closed the facility for four weeks earlier this winter as a precautionary measure after the discovery of several problems in the building’s roof system. Structural engineers conducted an evaluation of the roof structure and recommended a series of structural repairs. Completion of those repairs allowed the University to reopen the building on January 17.

Since the swim center reopened, the building’s original architect has been conducting further analysis of the facility’s roof structure. Today, he informed the University that he could not be certain how the roof would perform under additional stress, such as a snowfall.

“We are taking this step as an additional precautionary measure, based on the advice of the building’s original architect,” said Russell Carey, interim vice president for campus life and students services. “Our primary concern is the safety of our students and members of the local community who use the swim center.”

The University will communicate directly with the athletic teams, campus organizations and community groups that use the facility and will make every effort to expedite the architect’s inspection process. The University expects to receive his findings in the next several weeks.

Members of the community who use the facility and have questions or may need to retrieve any personal items may contact a hotline set up by the Department of Athletics at (401) 863-3014.

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