The town of Valdese in Burke County is trying to decide what to do after serious cracks developed in the Public Safety Center building this winter. The town’s fire and police departments are both housed there.
Fire Chief Charlie Watts says engineers have told him wire lattice work that connects several walls is crumbling. Hairline cracks apparently allowed moisture in, and with the deep freeze in January, major cracks developed. That possibly allowed even more moisture in.
The building in question is actually a combination of three structures. Cracks seem to be worse in the police department and moving towards the fire department, but the entire structure is compromised, said Watts.
“Engineers have told me the roof beams are actually what's holding the walls up and together.”
Fire and police departments are considered “Essential Buildings,” and are supposed to be strong enough to survive disasters and at least 100 mph wind. Watts says he has been told the building will not.