Sept. 14, 2017
Funding to Construct New Volunteer Fire Station at Blaine
FRANKFORT, KY. – The Department for Local Government (DLG) approved funding for a $454,545 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to Lawrence County Fiscal Court for the construction of the new Blaine Volunteer Fire Station.
“I am pleased that these CDBG funds were awarded for the construction of a new volunteer fire station in Martha, KY that will meet all the modern standards of safety and efficiency,” said DLG Commissioner Sandra Dunahoo. “The concern has always been to find a more permanent solution for the department since losing the original station in 2013. The new facility will offer a greater space for vehicles, equipment, and storage.”
Since the destruction of the original building in September 2013, the Blaine Volunteer Fire Department (BVFD) was forced to divide their resources among auxiliary storage facilities throughout the community. The temporary building that currently houses BVFD trucks and equipment is not large enough alone to provide for these needs.
The awarded CDBG funds will go towards the construction of a 7,200 square foot facility, which will contain 3 large firetruck bays, office area, 3 ADA compliant handicap accessible restrooms, full laundry and shower, kitchen and additional storage spaces. BVFD services up to 1,455 residential households, responding to just over 200 calls in the past 3 years.
“I am grateful to DLG for their assistance in securing these block grant funds for the Blaine Volunteer Fire Department,” said State Sen. Ray Jones. “The new facility in Martha, KY will ensure that we are bringing all the modern standards of efficiency and safety to help fire fighters continue to serve and protect our community.”
“I am thankful for these CDBG funds and the announcement of the new BVFD facility. I look forward to seeing the completion of this project,” said State Rep. Jill York. “We want to ensure that the volunteer fire fighters of this community have exactly they need in order to serve the community safely and effectively,”
The CDBG program provides assistance to communities for use in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services.
NOTE: Lawrence County Judge/Executive John Osborne was not available for comment when the news release arrived today at 4:15 pm. We will add his comment as well as Blaine magistrate Earl Boggs as soon as we can get up with them.
