Historic Engine Company 28 Firehouse Reopens after Renovations in Cleveland Park

Photo of 3522 Connecticut Avenue, NW reopening via @mayorvincegray

From a press release:

“Mayor Vincent C. Gray today joined public-safety officials to celebrate the opening of the newly renovated Engine Company 28 firehouse in Cleveland Park. The historic building – which first opened on December 1, 1916 – has undergone a $4.7 million renovation to provide safety, architectural and energy-efficiency improvements.

Mayor Gray was joined by Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice Paul Quander, Jr., Fire and Emergency Medical Services (FEMS) Chief Kenneth B. Ellerbe, and Department of General Services (DGS) Director of Capital Construction Services June Locker for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“The improvements made to Engine Company 28 have not only restored this historic fire station, but they have also equipped the facility with needed upgrades to provide a safer environment for our outstanding FEMS staff,” Mayor Gray said. “This will improve the safety of residents, businesses and visitors in Ward 3.”

FEMS has implemented a capital program for the modernization of several of its fire stations. The program includes replacement of deteriorated HVAC equipment, updates to structural and electrical components and preservation and improvement of architectural features.

“Fire stations have always been an integral part of the communities they serve,” said FEMS Chief Kenneth B. Ellerbe. “I’m certain the residents in Cleveland Park are just as excited about the re-opening of this beautifully renovated station as our staff members are about returning to this building and this community. We appreciate the Cleveland Park community’s patience during this renovation time.”

The renovation project for Engine Company 28 included widening the fire station’s bay doors to provide easier entry for emergency vehicles while also maintaining the building’s historic features.

“This project provided DGS with a great opportunity both to restore and modernize this 100-year-old building,” said DGS Director Brian J. Hanlon. “The building upgrades have improved the firefighters’ and paramedics’ living space, and today the fire station is safer for first responders to perform the outstanding work that they do for the city.”