In the News

City Breaks Ground for New Fire Station Number 3

October 7, 2009 - Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, Patrick J. Sullivan, Executive Director of Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management, Fire Commissioner Gary Cassanelli and Rita Coppola-Wallace, Director of Capital Asset Construction broke-ground today to announce the start of construction of a new fire station at 382 White Street. 

This station will replace the Oakland Street and Sumner Avenue Stations which are the oldest (built in 1894 and 1925 respectively) and in the poorest condition of all the Springfield Fire Department facilities.  This new station will House Engine 3 and Ladder 3 companies and serve the neighborhoods of Forest Park, LaBroad, East Forest Park, Maple High and Outer Belt.

The City awarded the design contract to the architectural firm of Dore and Whittier Architects, Inc., in partnership with CR Architecture and Design.  Fontaine Brothers, Inc., general contractor, was awarded the publicly bid contract in August, 2009.

This station is the first municipal building to be constructed in 10 years and is designed to reduce energy use by almost 20% and water consumption by over 40% above a standard building built to code.  The building design also reduces heat-island effects, promotes native landscape and the project is targeting a 75%  reduction of construction waste sent to landfills.

Mayor Sarno extended his appreciation to all city employees and neighborhood residents who were involved in the planning stages that led to today’s ground breaking ceremony and stated that he is “very pleased to see this project moving forward.”  “Public safety has been a top priority of my administration and fire protection is an important component of public safety,” stated Sarno. “The location of this new fire station will provide for a quicker response which is something that will provide all neighboring residents peace of mind,” added Sarno.

Commissioner Gary G. Cassanelli stated “The Fire Department has been planning for this new building for more than a decade.” “We acknowledge and thank those city officials involved in this effort that will result in a modern structure that meets the needs of our firefighters and their equipment,” stated Commissioner Cassanelli.

Patrick Sullivan, Executive Director of PB&RM stated “The Department of Parks, Buildings & Recreation Management is proud to be part of the rebuilding of Station #3.”  “The Oakland Street and Sumner Avenue Fire Stations had serviced the City well, however, due to the age of the facilities, it quickly became apparent they had to be replaced,” stated Sullivan.  “The Fire Department services are invaluable to our City and we look forward to working together to ensure our firefighters have quality resources in which to work,” added Sullivan.

Rita Coppola-Wallace, Director of the Department of Capital Asset Construction stated, “The City has been planning and designing this new Fire Station for close to two years and I am very excited about finally being able to break ground for the White Street Station.”  “One of the Mayor’s primary goals for the City of Springfield is sustainable design and energy conservation,” stated Coppola-Wallace.  “The White Street Fire Station will be the first City building to pursue a LEED rating certification for sustainable building design and construction,” added Coppola-Wallace.   

The total estimated cost of this project is $5 million which will be funded through city bonds.  

 

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Page last updated:  Tuesday, March 1, 2022 01:32 pm