March 18, 2003

Fire Station reoccupied

       After six long months almost to the day, Station 52 was finally reoccupied on Tuesday.  The station was heavily damaged during a tornado outbreak last September.  The station's roof was literally broken from its supports which took the most time to repair.  Nearly all of the ceiling drywall and ceiling tiles had to be replaced.  Along with that, wiring, plumbing, and insulation all had to be replaced.  The tornado virtually took off the front of the building which had extensive brick repair to be done.  The project was 95% complete on Monday with a few projects still outstanding such as landscaping, concrete repair, and downspouts.  Since September 20th, the crews normally assigned to Station 52 have been operating out of Greenwood Fire Station 92 on Fry Road.  Greenwood Fire Department responded with aid almost immediately after the storm.  They had extra bay and living space and put the crews up for the entire six months.  An already great working relationship between the two departments was enormously enhanced over the ordeal.  The crews learned a lot about each other and have forged many new friendships along the way.  The firefighters were definitely glad to be back home though Tuesday night; as were many passers-by glad to see them.  Many people were honking horns, waving, and welcoming the crews back during the move.  Local television stations covered the event as well.  The original story from September 20th, 2002 can be found here, which includes photos and audio from that day.

 

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