Fire hall assembly to start

H&K Construction will start assembly of the new Cathlamet fire hall next week.

H&K is finishing foundation work; next week, the contractor will unload and begin installing the pre-fabricated walls.

Traffic in the area will be re-routed at times during the week, said Cathlamet Mayor Dick Swart.

Swart said drivers on Una and Second Streets should be on the alert for flaggers and traffic cones near the construction site. Lukken Crane and H&K will be using a large crane, several big trucks, and a number of workers to unload and begin assembling metal framing for the main-floor fire engine and ambulance bays, he said.

"H&K management has requested and been granted permission to limit vehicle travel in the vicinity of the job site at the intersection of Una and Second Streets," Swart said. "The town has informed local law enforcement, public safety personnel, the marina, the PUD, and neighbors that traffic will be re-routed around the work area for a few days. Scott Kehrli has assured me that every reasonable effort will be made to alert drivers and limit inconvenience to local residents and business owners.

"The new fire hall is progressing to where everyone can see the actual building begin to take shape. The town and the fire department appreciate the understanding and patience of the public while construction is going on."

The million-dollar fire hall is being built through the generosity of Cathlamet Fire Chief Jerry DeBriae and his wife, Linda DeBriae. Swart said that a committee is being formed to plan a celebration and ceremony when the new building is put into commission in the autumn of 2007.