Cascade to begin construction of new $10.9M fire station

Cascade to begin construction of new $10.9M fire station
<strong> Photo via Facebook.com </strong>

A renovation project has relocated a fire station in Cascade Township as plans for a new facility are underway.

Cascade Township Fire Station 1 now is based out of a temporary space in an air cargo facility at Gerald R. Ford International Airport as construction soon will begin on a new $10.9 million facility located at the station’s current site.

Firefighters will be based at the airport space until the new Fire Station 1 is complete, currently scheduled for fall 2023.

“We appreciate the support and the temporary space from our neighbors at the Ford International Airport,” said Fire Chief Adam Magers. “We can’t wait to welcome the community into our new Fire Station 1 next fall.”

In addition to the temporary airport location, Cascade Township will work to maintain proper coverage during peak times by dispatching firefighters and staging response crews at the Cascade Township Branch of the Kent District Library, Fire Station 2 at 2990 Buttrick Ave. SE, and various parks, restaurants and retailers throughout the township.

“Our goal is to ensure we are properly positioned so we can respond rapidly in case of any emergency,” Magers said.

The new Fire Station 1 will feature nearly triple the square footage of its former facility, enabling enhanced safety features plus more space for training, storage and living quarters.

The cost of construction will be covered with funds already set aside and through a bond that will be paid utilizing existing revenues. The township said it will not need to ask taxpayers for additional dollars.

Demolition on the current facility is set to begin next week. More information on the project and timelines is here.