Avalon Fire Station Update
Posted March 28th 2022
The first phase of construction for the Avalon fire station addition is complete. This phase consisted of modifications or relocation of underground utilities: the drinking water line from a well behind the police station, the gravity sewer line, and the forced main sewer line.
Once digging began, it was discovered that the heating and cooling lines from the shared central plant at the Avalon Elementary School were approximately 15 feet from where they were shown to be on the borough’s maps. This discovery delayed the project two weeks as the pipes need to be moved away from the site of the building addition. This resulted in a $240,000 change order from Avalon Borough Council.
In addition, the project has continued to be delayed, as many have, due to weather and resourcing materials. It is expected to be completed by next spring.
Said Avalon Volunteer Fire Department spokesman Kevin Scarpa: “The fire department expects the new addition to be completed by October 2022, with certain renovations in the existing station to be completed between November 2022 and February 2023.”
With the prospect of foundation expecting to be poured soon and the possibility of block walls going up in early April, Scarpa ensures the builder will meet the project’s deadlines.
Over the years, the station has acquired additional apparatus that the current building was not made to hold. Additions to the station will also give the overnight firefighters a place to sleep. |