TAYLORSVILE -- Ground was broken Saturday for Fire Station 18, 5317 S. 2700 West, to fill what speakers said is a gap in fire protection in the Taylorsville area.
In a cooperative effort, the 11,500-square-foot fire station will be built by the city of Taylorsville and the crew and staff will be provided by the Salt Lake County Fire Department.The site is an ideal location, with close proximity to multi-story buildings along 2700 West and shopping centers around Redwood Road and 5400 South, said Taylorsville City Mayor Janice Auger.
Fire Chief Don Berry said the fire station also will be equipped with a "quint" engine fire truck that will provide fast and efficient service to nearby commercial development.
The "quint" comes equipped with five accessories: a standard ground ladder and hose, a pump, a 750-gallon water tank and a 75-foot aerial scope that elevates the water stream and offers better rescue capabilities, said Capt. Bill Brass, public information officer.
Local flavor came from fifth-grade students who sang patriotic musical numbers. Amanda Cook, Miss City of Taylorsville, and her first attendant, Melanie Ann Marsing, joined in on the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Rep. David L. Zolman and Sen. Michael G. Waddoups, both R-Taylorsville, participated in the ribbon cutting as well.
The fire station was designed by Pasker, Gould, Ames & Weaver architects and planners and will be built by Martin Yack Construction.
Mayor Janice Auger was especially happy about the fire station. Auger, who has lived in the Taylorsville community for more than 25 years, was proud to say "the money is in the bank." Construction of the fire station will be funded without the need to borrow and without an increase in taxes.