Ontario Construction News staff writer
A groundbreaking was held Aug. 12 at 845 Mapleview Dr. E. in Barrie, the construction site of the city’s newest fire station – number six.
“The fire station will be an important addition to the southeast of our city,” said Acting Fire Chief Derek Wilson. “It will ensure the residents have the exceptional level of service the men and women of Barrie Fire and Emergency Service (BFES) provide them.
“With an eye to sustainable building and operation, this facility will be a centre piece for the community for years to come.”
After a competitive pre-qualification procurement process, the city has entered into a contract with Verly Construction Group to build the new Fire Station. The building permit for the facility has been issued, and the construction fence has been installed on site. Site work is now underway.
Construction of the $12 million new fire station, on a 1.8 acres at the corner of Prince William Way and Mapleview Drive East, is expected to take approximately 14 to 18 months.
The cost included approximately 30 per cent for the land, 60 per cent for structure design, construction and fittings, plus 10 per cent for firefighter apparatus and equipment. It will be about 9,000 sq. ft., with approximately 4,000 sq. ft. for the apparatus bay and 5,000 square feet for the living quarters.
Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall says the new fire station will have modern features.
“It’s been designed with sustainability in mind,” he said. “It’s featuring energy efficient systems, all electric infrastructure and it’s ready for a solar energy integration at the appropriate time,” he said. “It will be equipped with modern fire fighting equipment and technology, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency services in our community,” the mayor said.