In a recent government meeting, officials discussed plans for the demolition and reconstruction of the fire station located at 12 South Park. The new facility will be built on the same site, featuring expanded parking and improved utilities. The project aims to enhance the station's operational capacity while also addressing community needs with additional amenities.

The proposed design includes a lengthened building footprint, which will accommodate four bays and three stories. A significant upgrade will be the addition of a covered parking area for staff vehicles, alongside an increase of 20 parking spaces in the rear lot. Improvements to the surrounding infrastructure include sidewalk enhancements along Church Street and stormwater management systems, such as a subsurface detention area.

One notable change discussed was the conversion of Church Street to a one-way street from the top of the hill to Park Street. This decision, while aimed at improving traffic flow for emergency vehicles, raised concerns about access for fire personnel responding to emergencies. Officials acknowledged that this would require firefighters to take a longer route to reach the station, but emphasized that the change was necessary for safety and efficiency.

The meeting also touched on the potential for archaeological discoveries during the demolition process. Officials assured attendees that they would take precautions to investigate any historical remains that might be uncovered during construction.

Overall, the fire station project is positioned as a straightforward upgrade to existing facilities, with a focus on modernizing operations and improving community safety. The plans are currently available for public review, and further updates are expected as the project progresses.