CHATTANOOGA, TN—A new fire station is now open and ready to respond to emergencies in Hixson and elsewhere in Chattanooga when needed. At a grand opening ceremony, Mayor Andy Berke, City Councilman Ken Smith, and Chief Chris Adams officially declared Station 11 to be operational. Berke says one of the things the Chattanooga (TN) Fire Department prides itself on is its responsiveness. "They want to get to the emergency as soon as possible," said Berke,"and this new fire station will enhance their ability to do that here in Hixson and throughout the city."

Adams says 15 firefighters are assigned to Station 11. They will be using a pumper, which has a 1,500-gpm pump and carries 500 gallons of water and 1,500 feet of supply line and many other fire, medical, and rescue tools. This apparatus is also equipped with the new mobile data technology, which is part of the mayor's Safer Streets Initiative. That technology has been installed on all of the fire department's front-line fire apparatus. "This new station allows for a more efficient use of the departments resources," said Chief Adams, "allowing the department to provide enhanced services to the North Hixson area."

Though it is called Station 11, this is actually the 20th fire station to be operated by the Chattanooga Fire Department. When a fire station is closed, the number is left open until a new station is constructed.

Station 11 Facts

• Cost of construction was approximately $2 million.
• Building designed by River Street Architects.
• General Contractor: B & W Contractors, DBA Cherokee Construction Company.
• Maximum staffing at the station will be 15 firefighters, with 5 working each of the three shifts.
• Station 11 will primarily serve the Hixson and Big Ridge areas.
• Meets the fire protection requirements as set forth in the annexation plan of services.
• This is the 20th fire station operated by the Chattanooga Fire Department.
• One-story, two-bay fire station.
• 6,000 square feet, includes accommodations for two fire companies, living/training room and offices.
• A “green” building in design and energy efficiency. Seeking LEED certification. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) was developed by the U.S. Building Council to establish standards for environmentally sustainable construction.
• Heat reflective paving and roofing.
• The building and surrounding site has a storm-water runoff system that features a water retention area with native vegetation.
• High-efficiency heating/cooling system.
• Building orientation and windows maximize natural light on the interior.
• Durable, low-maintenance materials used throughout that are low-to-zero VOC off-gassing.
• High-efficiency plumbing and light fixtures with occupancy and daylight sensors. Low maintenance floors.
• Residential sprinkler system in sleeping areas.