A Southeast Missouri State University building will remain closed through mid–August following a fire that broke out on the roof of the building earlier this week.
University officials met with structural engineers, insurance adjusters and representatives of a cleanup firm Wednesday to assess the damage to Robert A. Dempster Hall.
They learned the central atrium and parts of the building's south wing have roof decking damage. In addition, there is extensive water damage on the second floor of the south wing along with significant smoke damage that will require new partial roofing, new carpet and paint.
Officials say the building may be reopened before all the carpet is replaced because there is no other space available to conduct classes over the early part of the fall semester. The building houses business programs.
In the meantime, various offices previously located in Dempster Hall have been temporarily relocated across campus.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
