By Scott Harvey
Commerce – Commerce Fire Chief Brian McNevin has received authorization to submit an application to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for renovations and modifications to fire department's substation.
The substation, located in the Norris Community, was constructed in 1985 and has experienced very little use by the department as a fire training academy. With approval of the grant, the intention is to modify the building by adding living quarters for up to five personnel, make the building compliant with all local, state, and federal ADA (American's with Disabilities) guidelines and requirements, add a room suitable for training personnel, plus have an emergency generator for emergency power outages.
The project will also provide citizens in the Norris Community a "safe haven" in the event of inclement weather.
The city would seek about $1.2 million in non-matching funds from the government to renovate the facility. The deadline to submit the application is July 10.