As another deadline approaches, Salinas officials expect Fox Theater repairs to be completed.

After receiving a one-month extension from the city of Salinas to bring Fox Theater into code compliance and reopen, owner Anthony Lane is nearing a second deadline.

Salinas Community Development Director Megan Hunter reports Lane is close to completing all work since code enforcement officials shut down the venue on April 12, citing violations posing “a substantial danger” to public safety. “They’ve been very diligent,” Hunter says.

Lane now has until July 12 to complete a structural retrofit of a masonry wall officials had deemed unsafe, as well as receiving approvals on previously unpermitted stage modifications and repairs to the historic theater’s fire sprinkler system.

The wall has caused the most trouble. The Fox, being an old building constructed in 1921, has meant contractors, engineers and city inspectors have encountered unforeseen issues, forcing them to readjust plans as they bring the wall to modern seismic standards. “There may have to be additional retrofitting,” Hunter says, “but on the whole, it’s moving forward.”

Lane’s confidence in completing the work was perhaps evident in a premature “Grand Opening” event that was scheduled for June 29 with Intocable headlining; there is no word on whether it will be rescheduled.

Lane appealed the city’s notice, arguing he should not have to do the costly retrofit. In a heated debate during a City Council meeting in May, the council ultimately denied Lane’s appeal, but in a twist gave him time to comply. If he fails to meet the July 12 deadline, Hunter says the city would consider another extension.