From excerpts on HeraldNews.com:
In 1960, Don "Randy" Randich stood alongside fellow firefighters at the dedication of the brand-new Lockport Township Fire Protection District Station 1. Fast forward to 2017, and Randich found himself once again seated in the newly built Station 1, now the sole surviving member of the original firefighting team. "I spent 42 years in this line of work and served under six different chiefs," he reminisced. "Back then, this station was considered one of the finest in Illinois. This new building is absolutely stunning. It's like coming home to a big family reunion."
The official dedication took place on a crisp Friday morning. Chief David Skoryi and Captain John Batusich led the ceremony, joined by trustees, past and present firefighters, an honor guard, and community members. A traditional hose and coupling ceremony marked the event, beginning promptly at 10 a.m. with heartfelt speeches from both Skoryi and Batusich. Following these remarks, participants moved outdoors for a flag-raising ceremony, where the Lockport Township Firefighters Local #1544 Honor Guard hoisted the flags onto poles attached to the building.
Fire Chaplain Rev. Mark Hein offered a prayer, followed by trustees Paul Siegel, Henry Meader, Dave Palya, Bill Kendziora, and Gordon McCluskey, along with union president Pat Kelly and Captain Batusich, who held the ceremonial hose during the coupling ritual.
Chief Skoryi explained that back in 2010, the senior leadership and board of trustees recognized the urgent need for renovations due to several pressing issues with the aging structure. These included outdated sewer lines, electrical systems, HVAC units, cramped living quarters that couldn't accommodate both male and female firefighters, insufficient space for modern firefighting equipment, asbestos concerns, and the absence of necessary technological advancements.
After consulting with architects, they learned that the renovation costs would amount to 75% of constructing an entirely new building, prompting the decision to rebuild instead. Demolition commenced on May 25, 2016, with the ambulance temporarily relocated to Station 6 and the fire engine moved to Station 4.
The district aimed to preserve the historic charm of the area while embracing modern functionality. Externally, the building features seven arches symbolizing the iconic seven-arched bridge on Ninth Street, bi-fold doors reminiscent of classic firehouses, and angled flagpoles instead of traditional flagpoles.
Internally, the station boasts cutting-edge technology including LED dispatch systems and digital signage. The apparatus room is equipped with heated floors, and there's ample space for larger vehicles along with a diesel exhaust capture system.
Interestingly, the original Station 1 dates back to 1897 when it was situated in the 100 block of East 10th Street. It later moved to the Adelman Garage from 1902 to 1937 before relocating again to the City of Lockport Building in 1938. Finally, it settled into its current location at 828 E. Ninth Street in 1960.
This latest construction not only honors history but also ensures that the Lockport Township Fire Protection District remains prepared for future challenges while maintaining its proud legacy.
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