Construction underway on DBF-designed fire station

Salisbury, Md. — Berlin Fire Company, Inc. broke ground for Fire Station #3 on the north side of Route 50 outside of Berlin, Md., near Sunset Memorial Park. Davis, Bowen & Friedel, Inc. (DBF) assisted the company by providing architectural, structural and civil engineering, as well as surveying services. Willow Construction is serving as general contractor for the project, which is anticipated for completion in the fall of 2019.

For 10 years, Berlin Fire Company has operated out of a Route 50 substation, but continued residential and commercial development east of Berlin required the company to plan for a larger more permanent facility. The new station will be nearly 5,000 square feet, large enough to support three apparatus bays with room for expansion. In addition to the apparatus bays, the design includes a multi-purpose room for the company’s members, radio room, and support spaces. DBF designed the facility to later double in both size and bays as the area continues to grow and fire safety needs expand. Future space will permit a second floor to accommodate day room, bunk rooms, fitness center, and additional storage.

The project’s site, as designed by DBF’s civil engineers and landscape architects, allows for emergency response via Route 50 or Grays Corner Road. Most notably, the building’s design was to be in accordance with Worcester County’s Design Guidelines and Standards for Commercial Uses. These guidelines were developed to include key goals and objectives from the Worcester County Comprehensive Plan necessitating a traditional agricultural vernacular. The overall look is barn-like in appearance; appropriate given its location and use requiring large overhead doors and tall rooflines for large vehicles. Durable and non-combustible masonry and metal siding are prominent exterior materials.

Michael Wigley, architect and president of DBF, reflected on the project: “For a number of years now we have been working with David Fitzgerald, president of the Berlin Fire Company, and other key members to design a facility that can serve the immediate needs of the public while anticipating the likely potential for future growth. All along it’s been evident that these first responders are highly dedicated to the people and businesses they serve. For them, to see construction finally taking place is most gratifying.”