Fire Chief John Mattox led the tour on Sept. 4, guiding the group from room to room of the roughly 9,000 square-foot building, which is being constructed at 53rd Street and Woodsonia Drive.  

Nearly half complete, the main structure of the building is constructed, with interior and exterior finishes, and electrical and plumbing in the works. The new station will feature six individual bunkrooms, a fitness center, a gear washing station, an expansive storage area and a community/training room.

The new pumper replaces a former one that was taken out of service a few years ago. In the interim, the department has been working with a smaller pumper that is also equipped to fight fires, and with shared services from Callander’s fire department.  

Now that truck will be able to stay on the fire site working to put out the fire while the new truck shuttles water.

King said the new apparatus will help support firefighting efforts in east Norman and provide the department increased flexibility in how it responds across the city.  

Former Thunderbird Park Ranger Casey Fox said it will drastically improve the department’s ability to fight wildfires because it will provide immense amounts of water on scene, helping contain them before they get out of control.