Fort Smith Convention Center to reopen June 1

The Fort Smith Convention Center, including the ArcBest Performing Arts Center, will reopen for business Monday (June 1). The convention center closed March 17 in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19 and has remained closed since that time except for city meetings.

The convention center is allowed to host public or private events of up to 50 people, provided that reduced venue capacity limits are not exceeded, said Tim Seeberg, convention center general manager.

“We are excited about the opportunity to once again host events that fall within the guidelines and directives of the Arkansas Department of Health and we invite any and all events that fit the criteria to contact us,” Seeberg said. “We will ask and expect our clients to ensure social and physical distancing measures are followed and ask that face coverings are worn in accordance with current directives.”

In preparation for reopening, staff is deep cleaning and sanitizing all event spaces, public areas and equipment, a news release said. Staff will wipe down and sanitize all high contact surfaces prior to, during and following all events. An oxidizing disinfectant aerosol “fog” will be sprayed throughout all event spaces and high traffic areas before and after events, Seeberg said.

Staff will wear masks at all times while in event spaces, and appropriate signage depicting Arkansas Department of Health guidelines and directives will be posted at all entrances, and entrances and exits will be clearly marked on the floor.

Staff will adjust event policies according to guidelines and directives of the ADH, Seeberg said.

The only convention center events on the books for June are those related to city business, including board of director meetings and planning commission meetings.

“All other events that were originally scheduled for June either cancelled entirely or rescheduled for later this summer and beyond,” Seeberg said.