URGENT UPDATE: Fairfax is set to begin significant renovations on Fire Station 21 with a budget of $1.6 million, as confirmed by officials during a Town Council meeting on October 25, 2023. The project, aimed at modernizing the station built in 1974, is vital for ensuring safety and operational efficiency for fire crews and equipment.
The renovations are scheduled to commence in June 2024 and are expected to be completed by March 2027. Kristin Arnold, the Public Works Director, emphasized the importance of adhering to the budget to avoid overruns, stating, “When we put together the cost estimate, we did our best to stay conservative.”
Mayor Stephanie Hellman praised Arnold and Town Manager Heather Abrams for their innovative approach, highlighting that creative solutions have already yielded cost savings. “The community center is the most economical option that meets the Fire Department’s needs,” Arnold said, referring to the temporary relocation plans.
As part of the project, firefighting equipment and personnel will be temporarily stationed at the community center on Park Road. This move is expected to save costs compared to renting trailers, with a projected rental fee of $35,000 for office space during renovations.
Inside the community center, showers will be added to accommodate firefighters, while town offices for five staff members will be relocated to a rental house on Park Street. To maintain public access, temporary bathrooms will be installed by the outdoor playground, with plans to restore the community center’s restrooms once the renovations are complete.
The council discussed the necessity of amending the architect’s contract for the third time, with some members raising concerns about potential additional costs. Councilmember Mike Ghiringhelli questioned the implications of further amendments, asking, “Is there a chance this is going to cost more?” Architect Jessica Fairchild clarified that her contract, totaling $158,000, would now cover the entire process from permitting to construction completion.
Arnold assured council members that the project is on track, noting that unforeseen conditions could arise but remain manageable within the projected timeline. “When you’re opening up an existing building, there’s sometimes unforeseen conditions,” Fairchild stated, reinforcing the need for careful oversight.
To enhance transparency, Mayor Hellman suggested creating a dedicated webpage on the town’s site to display all project contracts and design documents, ensuring the community remains informed about progress and developments.
With the council’s unanimous approval of the resolutions, Fairfax is poised to enhance its fire services, ensuring a modern and efficient facility for the dedicated personnel who serve the community. Stay tuned for further updates as this project unfolds.
