Brook Park rec center could stay closed for ‘some time’ after severe tornado damage

BROOK PARK, Ohio (WJW) – Three weeks after a tornado tore through Brook Park, the city’s recreation center remains closed and could stay that way for “some time,” according to leaders.

On Tuesday, Mayor Ed Orcutt updated the public on the situation.

Normally the rec center would be offered as a cooling center during such hot weather, but it must stay closed due to the serious structural issues caused by the tornado on Aug. 6.

“It is an inconvenience but safety is our number one priority,” said Mayor Orcutt. “The rec center has eight roofs. The natatorium roof was a metal roof that was completely torn off and the other seven have extensive damage as well.”

Additionally, some of the masonry walls need to be repaired. HVAC units were also damaged and the interior sustained water damage.

Estimates are currently around $8.4 million for the damage to the structure, at the parks, clean-up and overtime from the tornado.

The mayor says the city’s insurance company and structural engineers have been at the building for about a week assessing all of the problems.

Contractors have been set up to make the repairs once the assessment is finished, but at this time, they have no idea how long that might take.

Fortunately, Orcutt says neighboring communities have stepped up offering their support.

“I can’t thank Mayor (Cyril) Kleem in Berea and Mayor (Matthew) Castelli in Middleburg Heights enough for offering and opening up their recreation centers to the residents of Brook Park,” said Orcutt. “It’s wonderful to know everyone’s come together to help out.”

The mayor is also working with Cuyahoga County on completing the necessary reports to be submitted to the state in early September in an effort to secure financial assistance.

Orcutt says he is grateful to county executive Chris Ronayne, ODOT and Governor Mike DeWine for their help with the process as well as Brook Park police, fire, public works and the service department.

But more than anything, he says he is grateful to residents of Brook Park for their patience and how they’ve helped one another during this difficult time.

“Thank you,” he said. “Brook Park we’re going be fine and we’ll prevail.”

In the meantime, anyone with questions concerning the status of a recreational program taking place can call (216) 433-1545.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.