Executive Summary
Leduc County collaborated with Scott Builders (SBI) to construct its Nisku District South Fire Station, navigating complex permitting processes and an ambitious 7-month timeline. SBI successfully delivered a 16,442 sq. ft., state-of-the-art facility within budget, enhancing emergency response capabilities in the critical Edmonton International Airport and Nisku Business Park areas.
By leveraging expertise, innovative solutions, and a focus on client needs, SBI not only met the County's objectives but also created a benchmark for cost-effective fire station construction.
Introduction
When Leduc County decided to build its first fully staffed, 24/7 fire station, it didn’t just envision a building—it wanted to create a hub for safety and community support. Located on Edmonton International Airport property, the Nisku District South Fire Station needed to meet stringent aviation and local service requirements while being ready for operations in record time.
Enter Scott Builders, selected to build their third fire hall for Leduc County—a testament to their established trust and relationship. SBI brought expertise and a solution-oriented approach that balanced functionality, budget constraints, and timing without compromising safety or quality.
The Challenge
Despite this being the 3rd project with Leduc, this wasn't a simple 'rinse and repeat'. Challenges to address included:
- Lengthy Permitting Process: Constructing on airport property meant navigating a complex permitting process that stretched over three months.
- Compressed Timeline: The fire station needed to be fully operational within 7 months, with critical services ready in just 5 months—a task Scott Builders approached with confidence.
- Site Constraints: The civil site work required significant redesigns to meet Edmonton International Airport's specific requirements, including stormwater ponds.
- Specialized Requirements: The project had to integrate advanced firefighting systems and custom-built operational and living spaces, all within a project budget of $5.6M.
- Strategic Importance: The station would serve high-priority areas, including the Nisku Business Park, Edmonton International Airport, and the Queen Elizabeth II Highway corridor, making operational readiness critical.
These obstacles posed considerable risks, requiring creative problem-solving and an acute understanding of public infrastructure projects.
The Solution
Scott Builders rose to the challenge with a comprehensive, innovative, and client-centred approach.
- Leveraging Experience and Relationships
Building upon its extensive history of fire hall construction, including two previous stations for Leduc County, SBI applied its deep industry knowledge to meet expectations effectively. They partnered with BR2 Architecture under a CCDC 14 Design-Build contract to streamline the project’s delivery.
- Efficient Project Execution
To meet the ambitious deadlines, SBI implemented "stacked trades and shifts," ensuring that work was completed around-the-clock.
- Construction Techniques: Durable precast concrete paired with conventional steel methods ensured longevity and efficiency.
- Innovative Design Solutions: Creative site grading achieved "net zero" soil requirements, significantly reducing costs on fill materials.
- Tailored Functional Design
The fire station was custom-built to meet the County’s operational and staffing needs.
- Vehicle and Equipment Bays featuring Plymovent® vehicle exhaust systems, a decontamination room, and gear storage.
- Operational Support Areas for training, administration, and IT.
- Living Amenities for the first full-time, 24/7 fire station in Leduc County, including dorm-style rooms, a communal kitchen, fitness spaces, and rest areas.
- Custom Landscape Work designed multiple times to align with airport regulations without exceeding the budget.
Results
The Nisku District South Fire Station showcased the success of Scott Builders’s collaborative, innovative approach. Key outcomes included:
Timely Delivery
SBI completed the 16,442 sq. ft. facility within the compressed 7-month timeline (May-December 2023), with critical functions operational in just 5 months.
Budget Adherence
Despite site complexities and stringent requirements, the project was delivered on its $5.6M budget.
Enhanced Emergency Response
The station now houses five firefighters and two EMS providers, significantly improving response times at the airport, Nisku Business Park, and nearby highways.
Safety and Compliance
The site maintained an incident-free safety record, earning positive OH&S inspection reviews.
Accolades and Recognition
The project was applauded by Edmonton Fire Board councilmen as a model for cost-effective fire hall construction.
Client Partnership
As their third fire hall for Leduc County, this project reinforces SBI's position as a trusted partner. The County's repeated selection demonstrates SBI's proven expertise in emergency service facilities.
Thanks to SBI’s post-construction service support, Leduc County continues to benefit from unparalleled same-day support for ongoing maintenance and operational needs—a service the County described as unique in the industry.
Quote
"The new station, which is the first in Leduc County to offer a full-time, 24/7 fire service, demonstrates our commitment to the safety of our business and industry partners and will serve the community for the next 40 years."
– Tanni Doblanko, Mayor of Leduc County Source
Conclusion
The Nisku District South Fire Station stands as a testament to what’s possible when expertise, collaboration, and innovation align. Scott Builders delivered a vital infrastructure project that will serve Leduc County’s emergency needs for decades while earning accolades for its budget-friendly and timely approach.
Looking ahead, the strong partnership between Leduc County and SBI paves the way for future projects, ensuring the community’s ongoing safety and growth.
Are you looking for a trusted construction partner for your next public infrastructure or custom-build project? Learn how Scott Builders can bring your vision to life.
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