The Redlands City Council recently made a decisive move to upgrade the Fire Station 262, located at 1690 Garden St., with a unanimous vote to allocate approximately $2.16 million towards its remodeling.
The decision, made during the council’s meeting on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, underscores the city’s commitment to modernizing its emergency services infrastructure.
The total cost of the project is expected to near $2.37 million, accounting for a 10% contingency plan.
This significant investment by the city is set to modernize the 59-year-old fire station, which plays a critical role in serving the southeast area of Redlands.
According to Assistant City Manager Chris Boatman, Redlands operates four fire stations, with Station 262 being a key component of the city’s emergency response capabilities.
One of the standout features of the upcoming remodel is the emphasis on creating a more gender-inclusive environment.
The station, built in 1965 and currently staffed exclusively by male firefighters, will see the addition of a fitness room and six new dormitories designed with future recruits in mind, accommodating a more diverse workforce.
City Manager Charlie Duggan highlighted the importance of these renovations at the council meeting: “This will allow us to handle multiple genders at the station. Something very important to us as we recruit for the future.
“We foresee a time when we have the need for that, so this is very intentional that we’re moving that way.”
The contract for the remodeling has been awarded to Elegant Construction Inc., with the project slated for completion within 180 working days.
This timeline reflects the city’s urgency in addressing the needs of Fire Station 262, ensuring it can continue to serve the community effectively while fostering an inclusive workplace culture.
The Redlands City Council’s decision to remodel Fire Station 262 represents a proactive approach to community service and workforce diversity.
By investing in infrastructure that accommodates a more diverse group of firefighters, Redlands is setting a precedent for other cities to follow.
The anticipated improvements, including the addition of gender-neutral facilities, underscore the city’s dedication to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all its employees.
