The purpose of this memorandum is to seek clarity and direction from the City Council related to cost and location for Fire Station 86 (“the Station”). The station was constructed in the early 1970s, and has seen significant modifications, renovations and improvements in attempts to modernize the facility and its functionality. However, because of the station’s age and the demands related to fire rescue services, significant improvements are needed. Unfortunately, the existing station and its location are not optimal. To provide services in the 21st century, we must possess a facility that operates with the modern accoutrements necessary for our first responders. The existing site is impacted by rising sea levels, high tide, and king tide, which makes expanding the existing site quite complicated. Furthermore, with the apparatus growing in size, the existing bay is not suitable for some of the existing response units the city currently owns. Our staff has persevered for a generation waiting for a new facility on Singer Island, and is imperative that we proceed with the construction of a new municipal fire station. The existing station has reached the end of its useful life and will likely need to be vacated within the next 18 to 24 months. City staff have explored and reviewed multiple options for consideration and believe that locations other than city-owned and operated sites makes constructability more challenging than anyone could have anticipated.
Community charrettes were conducted, and ideas were shared with members of the community. As a result of significant concerns expressed by property owners, our staff are looking at alternative locations that could improve response times and reduce impacts to property owners. As a result of the complaints, staff have commissioned a real estate analysis that showed there would be no adverse impact associated with siting a municipal fire station adjacent to residential towers. Some of the owners were concerned that they would see diminished property values with a fire station in close proximity to their residents. If a location is not identified within the next 2 to 3 months, this project will be delayed and will be the last station that is reconstructed. City Staff will begin efforts to construction of Fire Station 87.