New fire station opens in Barrhaven South

Posted Jan 19, 2012 By Jennifer McIntosh

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Barrhaven Coun. Jan Harder donated a fire chief's hat she received from station no. 44 on the eve of the former city of Nepean's amalgamation with the City of Ottawa. The hat was the last Nepean fire chief's hat and will now sit in the lobby of south Barrhaven's newest station no. 47.

Jennifer McIntosh, Metroland

Barrhaven Coun. Jan Harder donated a fire chief's hat she received from station no. 44 on the eve of the former city of Nepean's amalgamation with the City of Ottawa. The hat was the last Nepean fire chief's hat and will now sit in the lobby of south Barrhaven's newest station no. 47.

EMC news - The city opened the doors of a new $9.2-million fire station in south Barrhaven on Jan. 10.

The three-bay station, dubbed no. 47, will also house the Ottawa fire department's hose repair and maintenance depot.

Barrhaven Coun. Jan Harder said the need for the new station in Barrhaven was decided upon during a 2008 emergency services density study. The study found that due to the increase in the area's population and because of the geography, more emergency services were required.

"This is an exciting day for Barrhaven as we welcome this new fire station and the firefighters that are stationed here to our community," Harder said, adding that the station will be soon be joined by a recreation complex, an elementary school, parkland and sports fields in the area of Greenbank and Cambrian roads.

Mayor Jim Watson called Fire Station no. 47 one of the most environmentally sensitive buildings in Ottawa. There is an advanced storm water management system and efficient heating and cooling systems, Watson said they will save money in operating costs.

The 1,100-square-metre building also has room for equipment storage, a gear room, a dorm, a kitchen, a hose tower, office area, lobby, exercise room, watch room and training space.

Organizers of the grand opening were looking to the future and filled a time capsule with photos and memorabilia from the first ride to the station and the opening ceremonies. The capsule will sit in the lobby of the station to be opened in 25 years.

Harder also donated a former city of Nepean fire chief hat she received from the sister station in Barrhaven, station 44. She was given the hat on the eve of Nepean's amalgamation with the City of Ottawa and said it was only fitting that it find a place at Barrhaven's new fire house.

"The new station will mean faster emergency response times and greater piece of mind for residents of this growing community," Watson said.

jennifer.mcintosh@metroland.com