Report supports need for new fire hall in Ignace
A consultant’s report recommends Ignace build a new fire hall.
It feels a site on Lilly Pad Lake Road would be more strategic.
Ignace commissioned the report to evaluate the existing fire hall on Front Street and identify potential locations for a new one.
Bill Lorimer, Fire and Life Safety Manager with Loomax, says the existing hall’s age, size and location all point to the need for a new building.
“The current facility may lack the ability to accommodate recommended services and equipment, especially as certification requirements and demands for service both increase,” says Lorimer.
The study explored four potential locations.
Sites on Davy Lake Road and Pine Street were cited as being too close to Ignace Public School or further from firefighter homes.
A site near the Public Works Garage on Lily Pad Lake Road was seen as the most advantageous.
“The site is in close proximity to where current firefighters live, as well as where future firefighters may choose to live,” says Lorimer.
“The site is in close proximity to various critical infrastructure, and the site has minimal exposure to schools and pedestrians.”
It would be close to Ecole Immaculee Conception, but Fire Chief Sean De Tracey says it would offer multiple routes to access emergencies, especially to those on Highway 17.
The report does not comment on the cost of a new building.