HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-17-2006 South Bend Breaks Ground on New Fire Station c�
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Office of the Mayor
NEWS RELEASE
Thursday,August 17, 2006
11:30 AM
Contact: Mikki Dobski, Director of Communications & Special Projects, 235-5855 or 876-1564
Chief Luther Taylor, 574-235-9255
South Bend Breaks Ground on New Fire Station
Mayor Stephen J. Luecke and Fire Chief Luther Taylor joined with members of the South
Bend Common Council, South Bend Heritage Foundation, Memorial Hospital, and the
Lincolnway West Steering Committee to break ground for the new Fire Station #2, to be located
at the corner of Lincolnway West and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive. Mayor Luecke stated,
"This is a great project for residents of the west side and downtown and reflects the City's
commitment to positive growth and safety for our community."
The relocation is the result of Memorial Hospital's interest in the current Station#2
property at 120 E. Marion St. for future growth and development of the hospital. In addition,the
new site provides a more centralized location within Fire District #2 and reflects the City of
South Bend strategic planning for optimum response time for all emergencies. Chief Taylor
declared, "We are excited about this new location, which will give us quick access to the
downtown area and other portions of the district, and will give us better options for coverage in
other parts of the City when necessary."
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The new site and design for Fire Station #2 are the result of several groups working
together. The City joined with Memorial Hospital, South Bend Heritage Foundation, and the
LWW Corridor Committee to develop a cohesive plan that complemented the area. "Safety is
our number one priority," said Mayor Luecke. "I also appreciate the efforts that our team has
made to design a building that incorporates the aesthetics of this important corridor of the city
and at the same time enhancing the delivery of important safety services."
Funding for the project is being provided by a contribution of$1.2 million from
Memorial Hospital, and $900,000 from the County Option Income Tax (COIT) dollars.
Construction is expected to be completed by October 2007.
The new station will be 17,000 sq. ft. and will house Medic Unit#3,Battalion Chief
#103, Engine #2, Boat#I and tow vehicle, and a Reserve Rescue Ambulance. The plans include
the latest technology including a WAN connection to the City's server, three drive-through
apparatus bays, and a fitness room, firefighter pole, and an exterior design with wraparound
porch that will reflect the character of the neighborhood's 20t' century architecture.
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