The SAFE-T bond issue provided funding to update four fire stations and the District’s headquarters. Until April 24, 2017, the District’s headquarters was housed at Fire Station #1 on Timberbrook Dr., which was built more than 25 years ago. Since then, the area’s population has grown by more than 25%; and the role of the fire service and the needs of our community have changed. There is now a stronger emphasis on emergency medical service, training, fire prevention, inspections and community fire education.
“When we reviewed the investment to update the current building to meet the needs of the District and to continue to serve as a fire station we found that it was less expensive to move to a new building,” says CCFR Board Director Bob Carpenter.
The District purchased the building at 1220 Cave Springs Blvd. It is across the street from Fire Station #4 and is centrally located within the District. “This location will be easier for many residents to get to when they need permits or other assistance from those at our headquarters. It will also be more efficient for our inspection team and District leaders who travel around our 72-square mile District,” says Carpenter.
The updated building will provide adequate space for the fire prevention bureau, which handles permits, inspections and public education, and the training division, updated wiring and technology, and a small command center where emergency responders from around the area can convene in the event of a large-scale emergency.
The move will also open up space at Fire Station #1 to meet the needs of today’s firefighters with updated bunk rooms, training space, and exercise facilities. In addition, there will be an expanded community room available to residents and local organizations.
Construction on Fire Station #1 is planned to begin this spring. The replacement of Fire Station #5 (2934 Ehlmann Rd.) and updates to Fire Station #3 (511 Willott Rd.) and Fire Station #6 (1151 Jungs Station Rd.) are also planned.