Construction on the replacement of the Comox fire station is set to begin next week, marking an important step toward modernizing the facility.
The Town of Comox Council recently approved moving forward with the project, subject to final confirmation that costs remain within the approved budget. The decision reflects the need to upgrade the aging fire hall, originally constructed in 1977, to better meet current and future service demands.
“Our existing fire station has served the community well for nearly 50 years, but it no longer meets the needs of a growing population,” said Fire Chief Gord Schreiner. “This project allows us to be fiscally responsible by maximizing the current footprint while delivering a facility that meets modern standards and supports future growth.”
“This investment is about sustaining high-quality emergency services for decades to come,” said Comox Mayor Nicole Minions. “Upgrading the fire station now helps manage long-term costs, enhances firefighter health and safety, and strengthens emergency preparedness in our community.”
The updated construction cost is estimated at approximately $5.9 million, down from an earlier estimate of $6.1 million. A contingency of 10–15 per cent has been included to address potential changes during construction. As a shared service, project costs will be split between the Town of Comox (two-thirds) and the Comox Fire Protection District (one-third).
Comox Fire Protection District Chair Scott Park noted, “Our long-standing partnership with the Town of Comox demonstrates the value of collaboration. Residents benefit from high-quality fire protection services delivered efficiently and cost-effectively.”
Additional funding sources include future Development Cost Charges and a $50,000 contribution from the Comox Fire Association for furnishings.
A $5 million federal grant application through the Strategic Priorities Fund is currently under review; if approved, it would significantly reduce the financial impact on taxpayers.
Without grant funding, the project is expected to result in a 2.1 per cent tax increase—approximately $33 per representative household—beginning in 2028. Interest-only borrowing costs during construction are already included in the 2026 budget.
MacDonald Hagarty Architects has been selected to design the project, and Lacasse Construction will serve as the general contractor. Both firms are local, and the majority of subcontractors are also expected to be locally based.
Key features of the upgraded fire station include:
- Post-disaster construction standards and backup power, allowing the building to function as the Town’s Emergency Operations Centre
- Enhanced firefighter health and safety features, including decontamination areas, wellness areas, laundry, and showers
- Universal accessibility, with an elevator and accessible washrooms
- Expanded training, classroom, kitchen, and office space
- Five on-site affordable lodging units to support faster nighttime response and improved service levels.
The new fire station will run on 100 per cent electricity, which will produce less pollution than buildings using fossil fuels. Solar panels will be added to the building in the future.
During construction, emergency response capability will be maintained, and fire station reception and administration services will be temporarily relocated to an office behind the station at 1870 Noel Avenue. The tentative completion date for the station upgrade is fall 2027.
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Media Contact:
Gord Schreiner, Fire Chief
firehall@comox.ca
250-339-2432
