The start of the year has kicked off with important steps forward for the new East Courtenay Fire Hall, including the award of a construction management contract and release of new design renderings.
In January, the contract for construction management of the fire hall was awarded to Kinetic Construction, who will work closely with SAHURI + Partners Architecture Inc. on the final design of the facility to increase construction efficiency and design features and prepare it for the building stage.
This week, the detailed design of the fire hall reached the 50 per cent design milestone — an important marker in planning process. Updated renderings were also completed showing the latest proposed look for this important new infrastructure. Together, these steps demonstrate notable progress on the project, which is expected to start construction this summer/fall.
“The new East Courtenay Fire Hall will allow us to further support public safety by improving emergency preparedness and reducing response times for our current and future population,” said Mayor Bob Wells. “This recent progress represents exciting steps for residents and businesses on the east side of Courtenay, and for the volunteer firefighters who serve our community.”
The fire hall — to be built at 220 Waters Place — will include two double-length, drive-through bays along with room for administration and crew support. The space includes a dormitory, a health and wellness space, a training room, washrooms, locker space and a decontamination area. The design is based on a recently-completed facility in Dashwood (Area G – Regional District of Nanaimo), offering efficiencies in the design process.
View the latest renderings and follow along for more information at the project webpage: www.courtenay.ca/east-courtenay-firehall
Fast facts
- Courtenay’s population is expected to grow by 4,500 residents and 2,900 homes by 2031 — this new fire hall is in the heart of expected growth areas.
- An East Courtenay Fire Hall will ensure that fire suppression and rescue services remain within acceptable response time standards, particularly the 10-minute response threshold used as a standard for insurance purposes.
- The current Courtenay Fire Department headquarters on 8th Street limits the ability for residents on the east side of the river to volunteer. The new satellite hall will enable an increase in volunteer firefighters from 55 to 67.