The City of Lloydminster has officially begun its largest infrastructure project to date which will mark a significant step forward for firefighting in the Border City.
The City held a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the new Fire Station No. 1, replacing the original building that was deemed to have reached its end-of-life a few years ago.
Fire Chief Leigh Sawicki thanked the city, his crew and their partners from Chandos Construction for making this opportunity happen, stating that this is more than just a fire station for the department.
“Station 1 is our home away from home,” he said. “It’s about community and an essential asset for current and future Lloydminster residents and the surrounding municipalities.”
A layout of the new facility. (Screen shot/City of Lloydminster)The new station will be built on previously unused land in the Saskatchewan Industrial Park area, using two of the three lots there. This upgrade will serve several functions for the department, including a better facility layout, a tower designated for training, more efficient access to the city and better response times. Sawicki said that latter point is essential.
“Whether it’s to the property on fire, or neighbouring properties, or those in a collision, a quicker response time allows fire department to deliver lifesaving service more efficiently,” he said.
Michael Lewis from Chandos Construction said the project is being operated out of Red Deer, Alberta, but will be have them work closely with partners in Lloydminster.
“We’re looking forward to building the fire department the world class facility they deserve,” he said.
Mayor Gerald Aalbers called the project a new chapter for the fire department and thanked Chandos for their commitment to the community.
“[That’s] whether it’s through purchases of supplies or other services of hiring local trade’s people,” he said.
Aalbers also took a moment to recognize the namesake of the original building, Ernest Gordon Hudson, who served for a time as both the Mayor and a Councillor with the City, and was a member of the Fire Department for 54 years, before retiring in 1988. He was the second person in Canada to receive the Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal.
“[His] impressive legacy speaks to Hudson’s committment to Lloydminster and area and we are extremely grateful,” Aalbers said.
Lloyd Fire has transitioned in recent years to become a 24/7, seven days a week department. Aalbers said the project emphasizes the city’s dedication to building a sustainable community.
“With the addition of a new fire station, we’ll have the ability to further enhance services, response times and the community’s safety.”
The City and the Fire Department hope to have the new Station No 1 operational by the fall.
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