By Susan Dickson
Staff Writer
The Carrboro Board of Aldermen endorsed plans for the new fire station on Homestead Road on Tuesday, with construction still targeted to begin this summer.
During a work session, the board heard an update on the project design from architect Ken Newell. The $3 million fire station is the town’s largest project since the Main Street fire station was completed in the early 1980s and is anticipated for completion in April 2010.
The project design includes a number of sustainable features, including a rainwater system and solar hot-water heaters, qualifying it for LEED silver certification.
“You’re getting a great sustainable facility with a lot of sustainable extras,†Newell said, adding that the project has more sustainable features than necessary for LEED silver certification.
Board members gave hearty praise to the project design.
“It’s a project Carrboro can be proud of,†board member Jacquie Gist said.
However, both board members and residents have expressed concern about a number of older holly, pecan and magnolia trees on the site of the project.
Of particular concern is a 200-year-old holly tree, and board members questioned how protection of the tree would be ensured during construction.
According to Newell, a chain-link fence will be placed around the tree at its drip line, preventing construction vehicles or workers from disturbing the soil above the tree’s roots.
Mayor Mark Chilton said he would like the town to impose some kind of penalty for anyone crossing the fence around the tree. Newell said the penalty could be included in the construction contract.
Board members also asked about possible funding for the fire station from the federal economic stimulus package. However, town manager Steve Stewart said that while federal funds for the fire station could be available, the timing of the funding is unclear and the town couldn’t afford to wait.
“I think we’re bidding it at the very best possible time,†Stewart said, adding that construction costs have dropped but could start to rebound in the near future.
Stewart said the town could try to get some of the federal funds once the project is underway.