An aging hodgepodge of additions, the Maryhill fire station is in need of a major overhaul, or perhaps even a replacement. To help guide it through the options, the township has hired an architectural firm to evaluate the existing structure.
Somfay Masri Architects of Waterloo will be paid $12,000 to do the work under a contract discussed this week by Woolwich council.
Originally built in 1966 with two truck bays, the fire hall underwent an expansion in 1977 to allow for three trucks. Another addition in 1986 provided a meeting/training room. Today, the structure is 4,350 square feet. Much of it is in poor repair, however.
An inspection in 2004 identified a number of deficiencies. Since then, little has been done to improve the building, director of recreation and facilities Larry Devitt told councillors Aug. 2. The hall lacks insulation, requires exterior cladding, a roof replacement and washroom upgrades. As well, the slab floor in the meeting/training room is settling and needs to be replaced.
In reaction to the list of deficiencies, Coun. Allan Poffenroth inquired about the possibility the building would have to be torn down, perhaps replaced by the same kind of facility as the new fire hall in Floradale.
Devitt replied that remains on the table, with the architects looking at all the options.
As part of the process, the township will form a firefighter committee with representatives from all five stations providing advice, as was the case with the construction of the Floradale hall.
Devitt said he expects the evaluation to take eight to 10 weeks, providing recommendations in time for council’s deliberation of next year’s township budget. Whatever is suggested, Woolwich is facing a significant capital expenditure.
Home to 24 volunteer firefighters, the station handled some 130 calls last year.
