Construction is underway at two new Fire Stations marking an exciting time for the City of Welland as it makes a significant investment in community safety.

City staff have been working closely with the project management firm, Mettko, to design quality, energy-efficient stations. The construction of Fire Station #1, located at the former Atlas Steels property at 400 East Main Street and Fire Station #2, located at 636 King Street will result in significant efficiencies and improve response capabilities for the residents of Welland.

The project will consolidate five fire stations into three, as Fire Stations #1, #2, #4, and #5 will close once the new stations are operational.  Fire Station #1 will serve as the headquarters for Fire and Emergency Services operations, staff, volunteer firefighters and will include a training tower.  Fire Station #2 will be located behind the current site of the Fire Station Headquarters on King Street  which will be demolished once the new building is complete.  Construction is expected to be complete on both firehalls in the spring of 2022.

“Welland has an incredible and highly respected Fire & Emergency Services Department that is second to none across Canada,” said Mayor Frank Campion.  “They play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of our residents and the protection of property.  This is an integral step in keeping our citizens safe and ensuring the Welland Fire and Emergency Services remains a leader in fire service.”

“This investment will improve modern fire stations that will enhance emergency response and provide a modern training facility that ensures that our firefighters will have a safe, reliable place to practice their skills for years to come,” said Fire Chief, Adam Eckhart. “Modern stations will improve working conditions for visitors and our firefighters by helping to reduce exposures and contaminants in fire stations. These buildings will lower our energy use and demands on utilities for years to come while setting a performance benchmark that we hope others will also achieve.”

Ground-breaking celebrations were to be held at both locations on April 8; however, were canceled due to current gathering restrictions.

For further information on Fire & Emergency Services, visit www.welland.ca.