Critical facilities like fire stations and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) stations are the backbone of public safety in every community. These buildings aren’t just structures; they’re the lifelines that ensure our first responders are ready to act at a moment’s notice.
At Bremik, we understand that constructing and renovating these facilities requires more than just technical expertise—it requires a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to the safety and well-being of our communities. Our team takes pride in collaborating with the fire chiefs to create spaces that are equipped for new and evolving challenges and serve as dynamic community hubs.
North County EMS Station 52 in Yacolt, WA
The design and construction of emergency facilities demands an understanding of the unique challenges faced by first responders. In his work as Project Manager for North County EMS Station 52 in Yacolt, Washington, David Brookings shared those initial challenges – ranging from funding shortages to redesign needs – led to unexpected delays. “We worked together with the county, fire chiefs, and engineers to develop solutions that kept the project moving. For example, a 50,000-gallon water tank needed to be put into the ground; however, it was supposed to go underneath the existing building that was occupied during the project. Everyone got together and found a solution that moved the tank elsewhere, allowing for Bremik and the station workers to be operational without a huge gap in construction”. It is vital during a critical facility project to limit impacts to existing operations and work together alongside community leadership to ensure a smooth transition. “It’s a shared risk atmosphere; everyone is committed to creating solutions that will work for everybody,” shared Brookings.
Projects like Station 52 are often categorized as Category 4 buildings or essential facilities. These buildings can withstand certain elements and remain operational in the event of a disaster. They also serve as a shelter for residents in the event of emergencies. With such strict standards, the construction team needs to have a heightened awareness of additional design packages, certifications, and processes. Brookings shared that “as more information comes out about evicting our region in the event of an earthquake and the risk that poses, public projects are becoming more involved.” For a station like 52, which is the only source of help for people within several miles of the remote Washington area, it was essential to ensure continued operational success. The construction of North County EMS Station 52 was completed in the summer of 2024, positioning the team for success as they continue to serve rural communities in the Southwest Washington region.
Critical facilities projects are only developed or completed with the support of their surrounding communities. Bremik leaders work closely with local and regional governments, fire chiefs, medical personnel, and volunteers to get the jobs done. Bremik Project Manager Ryan Pugh said that the most rewarding part of these projects is “the relationships with the fire chiefs and their teams. They are great people who are super accommodating. With their ‘get-it-done’ attitude, they partner with us in unique ways.”
Districts and municipalities want to make responsible decisions with bond and taxpayer dollars, and they are doing so by focusing on both infrastructure and team comfort. Crews are often stationed for 24-hour shifts, so in addition to providing them with elements for better turnout operations like additional locker room storage and enhanced tap-out systems, efforts are made to provide updated bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, well-equipped gyms, and outside gathering spaces. According to Brookings, these are buildings that; “people have to live in for 3 or 4 days a week. Thinking about how the space is going to be functional is a signature of good work”.
Multnomah County Rural Fire Protection District #10 Fire Station 76
Despite the unique challenges that critical facilities projects bring, Bremik is committed to supporting those who dedicate their lives to protecting others. Pugh shared, “I am proud to develop something that supports our communities. It’s in the name; it serves a critical purpose. If we can help a fire department serve their community better, that is a value that I can get behind”. Bremik has successfully completed the construction of the following critical facilities: North Country EMS Station 52, Multnomah County Rural Fire Protection District #10 Fire Station 76 Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue Station 70, and Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue Station 72. Woodburn Fire District Station 21 construction is underway.
To learn more about Bremik and our critical facility projects, visit our portfolio on bremik.com.
