The Lakeville Fire Station Building Committee convened on January 29, 2025, at the Lakeville Police Station to discuss the next steps following a successful ballot vote that approved the project. The meeting, recorded by Lake Cam, marked a significant milestone for the committee and the town, as they now shift focus to the construction phase.
The committee chair opened the meeting by acknowledging the support from the community and emphasizing the importance of moving forward with the project. The design team has already begun strategizing, with plans to transition from design development to construction documents. The goal is to have the project out to bid by June 2025, with hopes of selecting a contractor by late summer or early fall.
Key discussions included the need for coordination with natural heritage officials regarding environmental considerations, particularly concerning local wildlife. The committee is also exploring the possibility of separating the water line installation from the fire station construction to streamline the process, a strategy that proved effective in previous projects.
Committee members were informed that while they will be involved in some decisions, much of the upcoming work will focus on detailed planning and specifications. The design team will continue to meet with the fire department to finalize equipment needs and room functionalities, ensuring that the new facility meets operational requirements.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of communication with the community. Updates on the project will be made available on the town's website and included in the February newsletters, allowing residents to stay informed about progress and developments.
As the committee prepares for the next phases of the project, they remain committed to engaging with stakeholders and ensuring that the new fire station will serve the needs of Lakeville effectively. The next meeting will provide further opportunities for discussion and input as the project moves forward.