DIXON, CA (MPG) - City Planning Commissioners heard a presentation on a new fire station introduced by Dixon Fire Chief Todd McNeil and presented by Andrew MacDonald, Consultant Engineering/Project Manager.

This second fire station, named Station 82, has been slated for construction in the southwest area of the City since the 1990s. The project was delayed numerous times as it was based on development in that area but is now part of the Southwest Dixon Specific Plan.

The fire station will be built on the corner of Pitt School Road and Lavender Lane in the Southwest Development. It sets on a large parcel that is two-thirds surrounded by a new park and is in the middle of newly-built single family homes.

"This placement was specifically decided upon to achieve multiple missions but the first and most important was to maintain appropriate response time as we expand in that side of town," said Chief McNeil. "What we are striving to achieve is a 90-percent level or greater [for various ratings with the state and insurance.]" He explained that the fire service has to adhere to response standards that are different for the city as opposed to the rural areas and with equipment located at the new site, it will "greatly enhance service" to that side of the District as well.

Commissioner Randy Davis brought up that this location places both fire stations on the same side of the tracks to which McNeil responded that the Parkway Boulevard Overpass is a "major and important component."

"With the rapid increase of development, and no forecast of slowing down, it is imperative that the City begin the design process to maintain response times and provide emergency services to the growing community," the report prepared by MacDonald read. "Additionally, in order to be prepared for possible state and federal funding, design of Fire Station 82 is starting now." A contract was approved with MFDB Architects, Inc. for the design in March and three public meetings were part of that agreement.

"The design is intended to provide a highly functional facility for the Fire Department, that is responsive to their needs, is durable and efficient to maintain and operate, and is scaled to provide an appropriately Civic presence for the fire station while also fitting seamlessly into the neighborhood at the corner lot adjacent to the existing City Park," reported Tyler Babcock, AIA, LEED AP, of MFDB Architects, Inc.

The renderings showed a few different angles of a building with three, large pull-though lanes to accommodate four pieces of fire apparatus that will exit onto Pitt School Road. It will be approximately 8,000 square-feet, all in one story. Four dorm style accommodations, two shower spaces, a kitchen and other living areas are included. Also included are a small office space, a public lobby, a fitness room, and five apparatus bays with associated utility spaces.

Interested parties and neighbors residing in the area of Lavender and Pitt School Road in the Southwest Development have time to attend another presentation that will be presented to the Parks and Recreation Commission on August 23, 2022.