The Classic Center Authority and Athens Clarke-County Unified Government responded Friday evening to the denial of its certificate of occupancy for Akins Ford Arena, saying it was heartbroken to announce that the building was not ready to use by its expected opening date.
The Rock Lobsters inaugural home opener Friday, the building’s first scheduled event, and Saturday’s game have been canceled because of the decision. A Black Tie Gala set for Sunday has also been canceled.
“We share in the disappointment of the Crustacean Nation and empathize with the Rock Lobster ownership, who have been outstanding partners while being on the road for the first three months of this season to accommodate the extended construction period,” the Classic Center said in a statement.
The building was unable to provide a trouble-free fire panel and was denied certificate of occupancy from the Athens-Clarke County fire marshal.
The building passed approvals from the planning department, the state elevator inspector, local health inspectors and passed a smoke control test, the Classic Center said.
“As a public assembly facility, the safety of our patrons remains our highest priority,” the Classic Center’s statement read. “The Classic Center Authority and Athens Clarke-County Unified Government will continue to work with JE Dunn (construction) and their subcontractors to quickly resolve this matter and open our doors to the public as soon as possible.”
Rock Lobsters ownership was equally frustrated, saying that it could not trust its partnership with the building’s owner after it was not completed in time.
“Since October 11th, the Rock Lobsters have been forced to operate as a strictly “On The Road” team, enduring significant strain and unforeseen costs to fulfill their commitment to bring professional hockey to Athens, GA,” the Rock Lobsters said in a statement. “These challenges include not having a practice facility and traveling one located 1.35 hours away from Athens, extensive out-of-state travel, and the operational strain of managing games without a home base. In spite of these unforeseen hurdles, the team has performed in an outstanding manner recording a record of 9-2.”
Ticketholders should hang on to tickets, it was announced, as they will be valid when makeup dates are announced.
