Ann Arbor to build innovative $12.4M fire station

Ann Arbor has approved the construction of a new fire station. The City Council voted 10-0 on March 17 to move forward with the project, which will cost $12.4 million. Construction is set to start soon and will take about 14 months to complete. The new fire station will be built on the same site as the current Station 4, located on Huron Parkway. The old station will be demolished to make way for the new one. The city plans to finance the project primarily through $12 million in bonds. This new fire station aims to be the first net-zero station in Michigan. This means it is designed to generate as much energy as it consumes. It will include features like solar panels and a geothermal heating and cooling system. These elements will help reduce its environmental impact. The budget for the project covers more than just construction. It includes funds for public art, furnishings, and technology. There is also a contingency fund of $1 million for unexpected costs. In addition to the fire station, the project will improve stormwater management and add a new basketball court at a nearby park. The new station will be designed to better meet the needs of firefighters and promote safety with improved access from the road. Ann Arbor currently has five fire stations. The old Station 2 closed in 2003 and has since been repurposed for affordable housing development.