Grand opening of Arlington fire station to be a big public deal

by PegNews wire

You could call it a real fire drill.

The City of Arlington officially reopens Fire Station No. 4 on Saturday, Aug. 15 with a ribbon cutting, tours of the new facility (including exhibits on public safety) and refreshments.

The old station -- built in 1957 on the same site at 1733 W. Randol Mill Rd. -- was demolished prior to the beginning of new construction in March 2008. The new station includes $1.6 million in improvements.

When the dedication celebration begins at 10 a.m., there will be residents from surrounding neighborhoods on hand to participate in special recognitions; for the ribbon cutting, Arlington City Council members will hop on board a fire truck and motor their way through the (presumably) red tape.

Here's the lowdown on what the new facility has going for it:

* Three times the under-roof space of the original station (from 2,400 to 7,438 sq. ft.)

* Three engine bays, six private sleeping quarters, two rest rooms, a fitness room, and storage rooms

* A front entrance community service room (with a table, chairs, phone and rest room) to accommodate walk-in public assistance

A four-member crew (consisting of one lieutenant, one apparatus operator and two firefighters) will man the station during its three 24-hour shifts.

For additional information about Station No. 4 and the grand opening ceremonies, call the Arlington Fire Dept. at 817-459-5500.

posted by JM