Mayor Spencer’s vision for enhanced Public Safety Services
recognizes another milestone

 Construction begins on Facility on Clinton Avenue

Huntsville, Ala. --- Mayor Loretta Spencer, the City Council, and the Director of Huntsville’s Department of Public Safety Chief Rex Reynolds marked a historic event with a ground breaking ceremony for the city’s first combined fire & rescue and police facility.  The facility will be on Clinton Avenue West.

 “As our city continues to experience growth, providing the best public safety services is extremely important,” Mayor Spencer commented.  “This facility will provide ample opportunity for growth within the fire & rescue and police departments.  The site also provides immediate access to several main roadways and the interstate.”

Earlier this year Mayor Spencer introduced Ordinances to establish the city’s Department of Public Safety which combined the Animal Services, Fire & Rescue and Police departments and to form the position of director of Public Safety.  The Ordinances were approved unanimously by the City Council.   

“This is a reflection of the future of Public Safety Services in Huntsville", Chief Reynolds stated.  "This facility further supports Mayor Spencer’s vision of combining police and fire to meet the growing demand on our services". 

Paul Matheny at Matheny Goldmon Architects worked with the city to design the 33,094 square-foot building which will have the appearance of a historical fire station.   

The facility is made up of two main program components.  The first is a new precinct for the police department with meeting areas, investigation offices, as well as community meeting and police-related areas.  The second component is the multi-story Fire Station #1.  The first floor contains five apparatus bays that will be used for various fire fighting vehicles.  There will also be laundry and gear storage areas as well as day offices.  The second floor of the fire station will serve as a living and training area for the firefighters.  This area will include a large kitchen, sleeping areas, exercise and locker rooms.   

“I am very pleased that the priority for our city is to continue enhancing the services of our Public Safety Department,” Mayor Spencer continued. 

Construction will begin this month.  The completion is anticipated in December 2008.  Pearce Construction was awarded the bid for construction.  Cost of the project is $5.2 million.  The Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District, TIF 4, which was established and approved in 2006 provides $4 million with the remaining $1.2 million coming from the amount appropriated in the general fund for this project.