The City Council has approved an appropriation of $32,135 for architectural analysis for much needed roof improvements at Fire Station No. 3 on Cabot Street in Chicopee Center.

The station has been in need of roof improvements for decades as the solar hot water heating system located atop the building has been non-functioning and the roof showing leakage. This solar system has been adding stress to the structure.

Adding urgency to the project is the inadequacy of the roof. Upon analysis of the roof, there is the potential for leakages and other weather-related issues should the project go ignored. A concern for the integrity of the building and the equipment inside has increased the need for this project.

This project will include removal of the solar panels on the roof, completion of specifications needed to replace the roof, and the actual replacement of the roof.

“In reviewing options for our fire stations, Station No. 3 is an important piece of our compliment, providing necessary fire services for the Downtown area,” said City Council President John Vieau.

“I am very pleased that the Mayor and the City Council agree on the importance of completing this project, as Station 3 and its location is vital to the total response capabilities of the fire department”, said Dean F. Desmarais, Chief of the Chicopee Fire Department.

“The ability to retrofit an existing structure and extend its lifespan is a win-win,” said Mayor Kos. “If we can repair rather than replace we save a significant amount of money while addressing the needs of our Fire Department.”

With the reopening of Station No. 7 in Aldenville, the Fire Department is working to increase fire services in the city, these improvements at Station No. 3 would improve the ability of the building to continue to operate as a fire station for years to come.