Fire code threatens Asbury Park’s Convention Hall

ASBURY PARK, N.J. (AP) — Asbury Park’s iconic Convention Hall and Paramount Theatre might have to close if a developer doesn’t install a mandated fire sprinkler system.

Madison Marquette officials say the system is expensive and not economically feasible.

The company hasn’t scheduled any events in the boardwalk complex after May 1.

City Manager Terence Reidy tells the Asbury Park Press (http://on.app.com/YsVytA ) he’s exploring whether the building is eligible for state loans to pay for the sprinklers.

Officials also are looking into whether they could install sprinklers in certain sections which house shops and bars.

The Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall were placed on the National Register of Historic Sights in 1979.

Convention Hall hosted concerts starting in the 1930s. It also has played host to Bruce Springsteen, The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin.