Training Center to reopen after repairs

OCONALUFTEE, N.C. — A training center for troubled youth will reopen under the control of the U.S. Forest Service after being closed because of poor building conditions last year.

The Asheville Citizen-Times reported Tuesday that the Oconaluftee Job Corps Center will reopen Oct. 1 after $2 million of repairs were completed.

The U.S. Labor Department closed the center in March 2007 because of a leaking cafeteria roof, moldy bathrooms and broken fire alarms that put students at risk.

The center was run by the Labor Department, National Park Service and Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians tribe members.

The center will offer educational and vocational training for youths ages 16-24. It will have an initial capacity of 136 students with a long-term capacity of 204 students.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)