UPDATE: The Town of Fairfax is moving forward with a critical $1.6 million renovation of Fire Station 21, with work set to begin in June 2024 and expected to finish by March 2027. This urgent upgrade is necessary to modernize the facility, built in 1974, to meet current safety standards for both fire crews and essential equipment.
Public Works Director Kristin Arnold confirmed during a Town Council meeting on Wednesday that the funding was secured from a county loan, emphasizing the importance of keeping the project within the budget. “We did our best to stay conservative so that we do not go over the $1.6 million,” Arnold stated.
Mayor Stephanie Hellman praised the innovative solutions put forth by Arnold and Town Manager Heather Abrams. “There have been cost savings,” Hellman noted, highlighting the effective planning involved in the project.
The renovation involves relocating fire station personnel and equipment to the community center on Park Road. This temporary move is designed to minimize costs, as it avoids the expense of renting trailers. The community center’s garage will house the fire engine, ensuring that response times remain efficient throughout the renovation process.
Inside the community center, renovations will include the installation of showers in the bathrooms, catering to the needs of the firefighting team. While town offices for five staff members will be temporarily relocated to a rental house on Park Street, public bathrooms in the center will be closed to ensure privacy for the firefighters. However, temporary outdoor bathrooms will be accessible for community use.
Arnold emphasized that using the community center is the most economical option to meet the Fire Department’s requirements, stating, “This raises the question of where to temporarily relocate staff… Staff conveniently learned about a house across from the playground that was available to rent.”
The Town Council is currently considering two resolutions: one to update the architect’s contract and another to approve the rental of office space. Questions arose regarding the amendments to the architect’s contract, which has already been revised three times. Councilmember Mike Ghiringhelli expressed concerns, asking, “Is there a chance this is going to cost more?”
Architect Jessica Fairchild clarified that her contract, now totaling $158,000, is designed to cover all services through the permitting, bidding, and construction phases. The rental of the house for office space will cost $35,000, based on a monthly rent of $3,500.
The council asked if the rental agreement could be extended in case of construction delays, and Arnold confirmed that it could be. “When you’re opening up an existing building, there’s sometimes unforeseen conditions,” Fairchild noted, reassuring council members that the timeline is reasonable given the project’s scope.
Following the discussions, Hellman proposed that the town create a dedicated webpage to keep the community updated on all project contracts and design documents, enhancing transparency throughout the process. The council unanimously approved the resolutions, paving the way for this vital upgrade to Fire Station 21.
As this renovation unfolds, Fairfax residents can expect improved safety standards and operational effectiveness for their local fire crew. Stay tuned for more updates as the project progresses.
