TM voters back new North Chelmsford fire station

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CHELMSFORD -- Plans for a new North Fire Station will soon get under way, following Town Meeting approval on Monday for project funds.

Town Meeting representatives backed $3.4 million on Oct. 19 in borrowing for the project -- outlined in Article 9 of the fall Town Meeting warrant.

Following the vote, Fire Chief Gary Ryan thanked the representatives, noting the fiscal challenges the community faces.

Town Meeting took place at the Chelmsford High School gymnasium, rather than the usual location at the Chelmsford Senior Center, to accommodate social distancing and other coronavirus precautions.

A new era

Ryan gave a presentation on the proposal, noting that an outside consultant evaluated the Fire Department's substations in 2019.

The consultant presented findings to the Select Board last November.

Town Manager Paul Cohen asked the Permanent Building Committee to explore options for renovating the North Fire Station -- located at 35 Princeton St., and also referred to as Engine 2.

The proposal approved at Town Meeting reflects the committee's recommendations, including tearing down the building's main portion and replacing it with a two-story, modular structure. Each floor will have 2,100 square feet, said Ryan.

The plan also calls for six individual bunk rooms, bathrooms compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the ability to install solar panels, and more.

The amount includes an allowance to cover firefighters' lodging costs during the project.

Timeline in focus

The plan also calls for getting rid of an attic, which Ryan said does not comply with requirements for access.

Ryan said the timeline includes soliciting bids within a month. The expected transportation of the modular building to the site would take place by next May, and substantial completion occupancy by July 15.

Many needs

Ryan said the original North Fire Station, built in 1956, is in need of several upgrades, including those for safety, health, and the accommodation of fire personnel regardless of gender.

Currently, the fire station reflects needs for a single-gender workforce, including only one restroom, one shower, and shared sleeping quarters.

Ryan said the bunk rooms are located in the apparatus bay, exposing fire personnel to carcinogens from the fire engine's diesel fuel -- a fact noted by the town's insurance provider. In addition, the bunks are too close together for coronavirus accommodations, Ryan said.

The building also lacks grounded electrical faults in the kitchen area. The building is also in need of other safety and health improvements as well as compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Ryan said.

Ryan noted incidents at fire stations with similar issues in nearby communities, such as Concord and Acton. Ryan said fires had broken out in recent years.

Neighbors' input

During discussion on the article, Ryan fielded some complaints about a lack of notice and community involvement. Ryan said, "We had conversations with neighbors, but also had to rely on remote communications."

Ryan said the coronavirus crisis needs for social distancing limited the ability to hold input sessions. "You are part of our neighborhood. We will bring you into the fold."

Precinct 2 Representative Kenneth Tassi asked about landscaping for asthetics, as well as to minimize noise. Ryan said concerns such as noise will be part of the overall plan. Tassi asked if the new fire station might have considerations, such as tinted windows, as were installed in the new Center Fire Station. Ryan said , "We are mindful of it, and will certainly work with neighbors to address those issues."

Precinct 5 Representative Glenn Thorn expressed support for the plan. "This is a very good project for the town...this is a good way to get the fire station you need back into this century."

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