SWANZEY, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Efforts to build a new fire station in Swanzey are ramping up as the Fire Station Advisory Committee prepares to bring a revised $2.5 million bond proposal to voters this March. The committee will host open houses at Fire Station #2 over the next two weeks to provide residents with details about the project and answer questions.

Since 2018, several attempts to secure funding for a new fire station have failed to reach the required two-thirds supermajority. This year’s proposal reflects significant changes aimed at lowering costs while addressing critical issues at the current facility, which was built in the 1960s and no longer meets the department’s operational needs.

The updated plan for the proposed two-story station at 321 Old Homestead Highway has a smaller footprint than last year’s $5.28 million version, reducing construction costs by over $1 million. The new design includes modern safety features, improved space for fire trucks, administrative offices, and training areas. An unfinished second floor is also included, offering space for future expansion of emergency services.

Committee Chair Jay Ward noted that cost reductions were achieved by scaling down the building’s size, reducing paving expenses, and switching to less costly materials. The estimated bond amount is $2.5 million, thanks in part to funds already set aside in the town’s fire station capital reserve account.

To improve transparency, the committee has released a series of informational videos and held 12 public meetings over the past six months. Ward hopes the upcoming open houses will provide an opportunity to dispel any lingering misconceptions.

The committee selected the 321 Old Homestead Highway property for its central location, access to town water and sewer, and ample space for outdoor training and future expansion. Compared to other potential sites, the town-owned property offers significant cost advantages and could be ready for construction by 2025 if voters approve the bond.

“Although we have been able to reduce the cost significantly, we are aware that the project requires a financial commitment from taxpayers,” wrote Ward in an e-mail. “However, we also strongly believe that a new station is badly needed, and that if we do not act now, the cost of a new station will only increase.”

Residents are encouraged to attend one of two open houses at Fire Station #2, located at 620 Old Homestead Highway:

  • Saturday, January 18, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Saturday, January 25, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The committee will also hold a bond hearing this Wednesday, Jan. 15, at 6 p.m. at Whitcomb Hall, where further public input will be gathered.

Questions about the project can be directed to JayWardSwanzey@gmail.com.