2013 EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR COMMUNITY
This $27.3 million project was designed and constructed as a dual purpose facility for two critical operational groups – the Base Fire Department and Emergency Response Centre. The Emergency Response Centre is responsible for responding to environmental and civil emergencies in a post-disaster scenario and the Fire Hall provides firefighting services for both CFB Esquimalt and the immediate surrounding communities.
It has a total area of 38,804 sq. ft. and is designed to remain fully functional following a major earthquake for a minimum of one week. The facility is segmented by a gallery, which establishes a distinctness and identity for each of the two functions, while also functioning as a control point for visitors.
The 1st floor contains five truck bays, workshops, an administrative area and offices for fire officials and support staff. The Emergency Response Centre on the 2nd floor is designed as a coordination and operations centre that will respond and coordinate with other Government agencies in the event of a natural disaster. Dorms for 20 firefighters, a fully equipped kitchen and dining room, a lounge area, gym and lecture room are located on the 3rd floor. The project was designed selectively incorporating certain aspects of the LEED Silver guidelines for construction waste management, including construction indoor air quality and water use efficiency, low VOC carpet and CFC, HCFC and Halon free HVAC equipment.