Why is Fire District 3 adding on to the fire station on NE 227 Ave. in Venersborg?
Our strategic planning identified a need to improve emergency response capabilities in the Venersborg area.

The current station is too small to safely park a modern fire engine. The current fire engine assigned to this station nearly touches the front and back walls of the apparatus bay, and provides less than three feet of clearance on each side. We need more room for a fire engine and a likely water tender, brush truck or emergency medical response unit.

The newly remodeled building will have two restroom facilities and four separate sleeping rooms to provide privacy for male and female firefighters. We are building for the immediate needs of today with the future in mind.

This fire station serves not only the Venersborg area, but also serves as the next closest fire station to the Heisson/Battle Ground Lake area and Hockinson. The emergency response vehicle(s) and personnel at this station will respond to all fires and medical emergencies in Venersborg, and as needed for fire and medical emergencies in the Heisson/Battle Ground Lake, Hockinson, Rawson Road/Hockinson Highlands and Battle Ground areas.

How is the addition being funded?
Fire District 3 began budgeting for this project in 2004. Each year we have placed money aside for this project. We have saved enough money to go forward and complete the project.

Will my taxes increase to pay for this addition?
No. The money has been saved from tax revenues already provided by local property owners.

Why are you doing this now?
Construction costs are currently the lowest seen in years. We want to take advantage of these savings now. We also think this is a great time to help the local economy by putting more people to work.

How many people will the construction project employ?
The general contractor estimates approximately 50-60 people will work on this construction project. The general contractor, Team Construction, is located in Vancouver. Many of the subcontractors are from the Vancouver, Battle Ground and Hockinson areas.

Will the fire station be closed during the construction?
The fire station will be closed for construction from April 20 through approximately August 10, 2009. Emergency response during this time will be provided by emergency personnel located at the Battle Ground Lake/Heisson fire station (NE 259 St and NE 182 Ave), and the Hockinson fire station (NE 159 St and NE 182 Ave).

When will the project be completed?
The contractor estimates construction will be completed by early to mid August, 2009.

Will I be able to visit the new station when completed?
Yes. We will have our annual open house at Station 3-2 probably in September. Stop by and take a tour of the building, have a hot dog and cold drink, and visit with our personnel.

How can I find out more information about this project?
If you have additional questions about this project or any other issue at Fire District 3, please contact Fire Chief Steve Wrightson at (360) 892-2331 or steve@fire3.org. You can also find other Fire District 3 information on our website at www.fire3.org.