Community Building Repurposed as New Fire Hall
The future Sherbrooke & Area Volunteer Fire Department fire hall prior to renovations
Sean Fraser, Member of Parliament for Central Nova, today announced a $242,000 contribution through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP150) to assist the Sherbrooke & Area Volunteer Fire Department renovate an existing community building. The investment was announced on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
In addition to emergency first response and fire protection, the Sherbrooke & Area Volunteer Fire Department is a vital contributor to the community through activities such as Fire Prevention week in local schools, fire extinguisher training for local nursing home employees and traffic control operations for large events in the area such as Sherbrooke Village Old Fashioned Christmas and Canada Day Parade and Festivities.
The funding contribution will allow the Department to repurpose a former school bus garage into a functioning fire hall. Project activities include: structural reframing, interior demolition, the addition of a community room and kitchenette, installation of new windows, bay doors, floors, and siding; and upgrades to the plumbing, electrical and heating systems. The repurposed building will ensure energy efficiency and sustainability of the Department by lowering operational expenses.
The project is also supported by a $50,000 contribution and $50,000 loan guarantee from the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s and a $178,250 contribution from the Sherbrooke & Area Volunteer Fire Department.
“The Government of Canada is pleased to support the Sherbrooke & Area Volunteer Fire Department through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program. Supporting vital infrastructure enhancements for emergency services helps keep Canadian communities healthy, strong and safe.”
– The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“Volunteer firefighters are a mainstay in communities across Canada. Here in Sherbrooke their service to fellow citizens, frequently under dangerous circumstances, is something that we rely on for our safety and well-being. We are proud to support the Sherbrooke & Area Volunteer Fire Department in the establishment of a new fire hall so they can continue to serve Canadians.”
– Sean Fraser, Member of Parliament for Central Nova
“The District of Saint Mary’s is pleased to be a funding partner in this important project by the Sherbrooke & Area Volunteer Fire Department. The Volunteer Fire Department provides a critical public safety service in protecting lives and properties in Sherbrooke and surrounding communities.”
– Michael Mosher, Warden, Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s
“Sherbrooke & Area Volunteer Fire Department very much appreciates the funding partnership with ACOA announced today by MP Sean Fraser. From an operational and safety standpoint it will be a great asset for our department to operate from our new hall.”
– Wayne Auton, Fire Chief, Sherbrooke & Area Volunteer Fire Department