The contract to build the new fire hall has been awarded and some changes have been made to the previous plans.
To reduce costs, a different gear storage system was identified, structural changes were made to utilize the LVL panel system, a different exhaust system was substituted, outdoor landscaping was scaled back, the fire hose tower was reduced in size slightly and siding was substituted for a more economical option, reported director of planning Luke Sales.
By making these reductions the town was able to add a pumper test pit, LED lighting and paved parking.
These changes were made after the two lowest bidders were issued a post-tender addendum to provide clarity on the cost-saving measures they proposed. In the end the contract was awarded to Windley Contracting Ltd. of Nanaimo.
The changes have reduced the price from $5,585,872 to $5,496,062.
Solar panels and a solar wall were also scratched from the plans but may still be added back in pending grant funding from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
With all of the changes the fire hall will still showcase the leading edge of energy efficiency and building technology, Sales stated in his report to council.
Construction will begin on the fire hall this summer and is expected to last one year.
A ground-breaking ceremony will take place for the fire hall at the new location at 150 Rupert Rd. at 10:30 a.m. on July 25.
Residents can stay informed on the Fire Hall project through the Town Tidings page which appeared in the last Thursday edition of the Parksville Qualicum Beach News and they can check out the Fire Hall Info Update page at www.qualicumbeach.com where videos, Q+As and more can be found.