Renovations Completed at Fire Station 29

With construction completed in 1993, Fire Station 29, located at 4747 South Dixie Drive, was state-of-the-art. But 23 years later, weather, 24-hour use, and general wearand- tear had taken its toll, calling for nearly top-to-bottom renovation.

From old and worn to new and bright, repairs and replacements were the name of the game, ranging from roof repairs to full flooring replacement. The large project was directed by Building Maintenance Superintendent Bobby Engle, who coordinated the work of maintenance staff and eight contracting companies, which included installation of new doors and locks, new windows, upgraded wiring, painting and drywall, flooring, plumbing, roofing, energy-efficient bay lighting, energy-efficient exterior lighting and a thorough deep-cleaning.

While the project was underway the fire crew assigned to #29 was required to “bug out,” relocating most equipment, beds, radios, gear, etc. to Fire Station #28 on Viking Lane, which had been unmanned since 2009, but is used for training and storage. Engle also coordinated getting #28 up to speed for temporary use with plumbing repairs and electrical work. Relocating to #28 kept fire services at top operating capacity while #29 received its fourweek facelift.

Fire Division Lt. Doug Baumgartner said, “I have had no complaints from anyone,” when asked how the crew liked the improved facility, and added, “We are very careful to not damage the new floor.”

The City thanks Todd Beres of Rush Package Delivery for use of a large delivery truck to move equipment and supplies during relocation.