The construction of a new Emergency Services Base in downtown Campbellford remains on track to be completed by mid-2020, Northumberland County announced Tuesday.
A joint initiative between the Municipality of Trent Hills and Northumberland County, this facility will include space for both Northumberland Paramedics as well as the Trent Hills Fire Department. It will also include the Trent Hills Council Chambers and Emergency Operations Centre.
With the strategic downtown-core location, the press release said, paramedic and fire-service officials anticipate improved public safety through easier access to the community’s urban centre. Efficiencies in facility operations are also expected, as a result of a shared-cost model between the municipality and the county.
“We are looking forward to the new Trent Hills Emergency Services Base being fully operational by next summer,” Trent Hills Mayor (and county councillor) Bob Crate said.
“This is a modern facility for our council chambers and first responders while, at the same time, designed specifically to fit with the look and feel of our historic downtown.”
The mayor added that some concern had been expressed about the impact on parking in the downtown core but, in the end, careful building design resulted in the loss of only three parking spaces. Meanwhile, Crate continued, staff will continue to explore opportunities to create additional parking spaces for all those who wish to visit Campbellford's beautiful downtown.
“Ultimately, this investment establishes a critical presence for emergency-response resources in our urban area, ensuring our residents will continue to receive quick and effective aid during an emergency as our community grows,” he said.
“We look forward to welcoming the community to the grand opening in 2020.”
The ground-breaking took place in April 2019. Eight months later, the full structure has taken shape. Exterior and structural work (including brickwork, blockwork, insulation, wall board installation and plumbing) are nearly complete. In the new year, the focus of construction will shift to interior work and final touches.
“This facility allows our upper- and lower-tier municipalities to combine resources for efficient delivery of essential services,” Acting County Warden Bob Sanderson stated.
“As an additional benefit, this shared space will also encourage collaborative relationship-building between our first responders who work closely together in the field — which, in turn, will ensure a more seamless emergency response service for residents.
“County Council is very pleased with the progress on this facility. It will be a vital community resource.”
