Fernie’s old fire hall is coming down as demolition gets underway this week, making way for a new five-storey residential/commercial building.
The project, led by Elk Valley Family Society and New Commons Development, will replace the unused fire hall with 44 new rental homes above space for businesses.
The new building will feature a mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom units, with at least 30 per cent of the units offered at below-market rates.
The structure will have over 3,000 square feet of commercial space, with 700 devoted to offices for the Elk Valley Family Society, and 45 parking spaces, including one level of underground parking.
Mayor Nic Milligan says this will be a significant step in addressing Fernie’s housing crisis.
“We see people struggling to find accommodation in Fernie, one that they could afford, and two, that is even available,” said Milligan.
“It’s having a big impact on local businesses and residents in the community.”
The City-owned property at 692 3rd Avenue was the community’s fire hall until 2022, when the building was deemed unfit to serve the department.
Construction will begin once demolition wraps up, and Fernie officials expect the building to be finished by Fall 2027.
Traffic will be impacted in the following ways while construction is underway:
- 3rd Avenue between 6th and 7th Street will be converted into a one-way street for the duration of the project.
- 7th Street from 2nd to 3rd Avenue will be partially closed. The City says contractors will try to maintain two-way traffic where possible by removing some on-street parking.
- Alley access between 2nd and 3rd Avenue and 6th and 7th Streets will be restricted at times.
- Full closures of 7th Street and 3rd Avenue will occur for crane operations. The City says they will give advance notice.
- Initial work will involve relocating the fire hydrant and water/sewer tie-ins, which could result in short-term road closures and service interruptions.
“In addition, the City-owned lot at 902 2nd Avenue will be used to support the project through construction, with the site fenced for contractor parking, material storage, and prefabrication activities,” said City staff.
“A temporary 4-way stop is in place to support traffic flow.”
Fernie has also backed the project through multiple assists.
“The City of Fernie is supporting this project with a long-term lease of this City-owned land, use of 902 2nd Avenue during construction, a permissive tax exemption, access to affordable housing reserve funds, and priority processing of the required permits. We’re excited to see the project come to life and thank residents for their patience during construction,” said City officials.
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