A multi-year, $72 million renovation of Cambridge’s eight fire stations, many of which were built in the late 1800s, is well underway. In FY18, an initial appropriation of $2 million provided funds for immediate repairs to multiple fire stations to improve working and living conditions.
The renovations include locating living areas further away from other areas of fire houses. This reduces prolonged exposure to pollutants from fires that can stick to firefighter gear and equipment.
“I am very pleased that the City is investing an estimated $72 million for these important fire station renovations and toward improving the living areas for our first responders who take risks every single day to keep our community safe,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale.
Building upgrades and/or renovations completed to date or in the works include:
East Cambridge, Station 3 (175 Cambridge Street). Upgrades totaling $1.7 million were made to the electrical and HVAC systems, second floor lighting, and ceiling. In 2022, the original sanitary sewer pipe in the building will be replaced and a new backup generator will be designed and installed.
Taylor Square, Station 8 (113 Garden Street). A $7.2 million renovation included extensive building and energy saving upgrades, with geothermal HVAC system, LED lighting, a new roof, and solar panels. The building was deep cleaned and painted and the kitchen was refurbished. Lightning protection and an emergency generator were also installed.
River Street, Station 6 (176 River Street). A $5.4 million renovation, scheduled for completion in March 2022, includes upgraded geothermal HVAC system, a new sprinkler system, new kitchen appliances, cabinets and countertops, IT improvements, new lighting, fitness area, and more. The first floor includes a personnel and equipment decontamination area and a separate bunker gear extractor (for washing pollutants from smoke). The living area on the second floor includes 6 new bedrooms, 3 restrooms, and a washer and dryer.
Lexington Ave., Station 9 (167 Lexington Avenue). The $4.3 million renovation, scheduled for completion in March 2022, include upgraded HVAC system, a new sprinkler system, new kitchen appliances, cabinets and countertops, IT improvements, new lighting, fitness area, and more. The first floor includes a personnel and equipment decontamination area and bunker gear extractor. The separate living area includes 4 new bedrooms, 2 restrooms, and a washer and dryer.
A complete renovation of Fire Headquarters is expected to begin later this year. Design work on improvements to Lafayette Square fire station has begun and a feasibility study is underway for Inman Square Fire Station. Design work for Porter Square Fire Station is slated for 2023.
“The men and women of the Cambridge Fire Department are grateful for the investment and commitment of the City Manager and his staff along with the City Council to make these significant upgrades,” said Fire Chief Gerard E. Mahoney. “We are committed to providing our fire personnel with a safe and secure environment in which to work coupled with excellent equipment and training.”