The Gulf Shores Fire Department is in the beginning stages of building a new firefighter training facility, following the demolition of the previous one located at the Gulf Shores Utilities treatment plant. The new facility is crucial for the department to maintain its prestigious ISO Class 1 Rating—a distinction held by only the top 1% of fire departments across the United States.

Importance of ISO Class 1 Rating

An ISO (Insurance Services Office) Class 1 Rating is a rare accolade, awarded to only 329 out of approximately 45,000 fire departments nationwide. The rating is a key factor in the City's fire safety standards and requires rigorous training and preparation. The absence of a training facility could jeopardize the department's ability to uphold this high standard.

Proposed Location

The new facility is proposed to be built on City-owned property at the west end of West 36th Ave. The location is strategically chosen for its central proximity to various fire stations. It is bounded to the north by Aventura, to the south by the City, to the west by Baldwin County, and to the east by Magnolia Bay Apartments and the Lake PUD. Additionally, a future connector road is planned along the east property line between West 36th Ave and Waterway West, further enhancing accessibility.

Facility Features

The facility is set to include several specialized training elements:

• 
  Live Fire Training Building
• Combat Training Tower
• Confined Space Training Building
• Trench Rescue Apparatus
• Covered pavilion for outdoor classroom settings

Timeline and Budget

Construction is estimated to commence in Fall 2023 with a budget of $1.2 million. The project will be executed in phases, with the first phase focusing on site work, including paving, drainage, and utilities. Bids for this phase are expected to be finalized by the end of September 2023.

The new training facility is not just an infrastructural upgrade; it is a pivotal investment in the Gulf Shores Fire Department's commitment to excellence and safety. As the department aims to maintain its ISO Class 1 Rating, the facility will serve as a cornerstone for advanced training and preparedness for years to come.