Ground broken on new North Shuswap firehall two years after devastating wildfire

Firehall rebuild cheered

Photo: Liberty Contract Management

Members of the Scotch Creek-Lee Creek Fire Department, CSRD Board Chair Natalya Melnychuk, Electoral Area F Director Jay Simpson and CSRD staff gathered to break ground on construction of the new fire hall

Ground has been broken on a new $5.6-million firehall in the North Shuswap, more than two years after a devastating wildfire swept through the area.

The Scotch Creek Firehall was destroyed when the Bush Creek East fire tore through Scotch Creek in 2023.

The fire hall is being built at a new location, 1435 Beatty Rd. in Scotch Creek, which was chosen for its larger size and improved access. The Columbia Shuswap Regional District said officials were "thrilled and grateful" to have broken ground on the project.

“It’s deeply meaningful to get this project to the start of construction,” said Derek Sutherland, the CSRD’s general manager, community and protective services.

“It’s another important step in rebuilding and it’s a tangible sign of the North Shuswap’s strength and resilience.”

Liberty Construction Group was awarded the contract for the project. The company has built more than 30 firehalls but Kevin Kinakin, director of projects for Liberty Contract Management, said this job feels special.

“Every trade partner on the project is from the Shuswap region, bringing local knowledge, pride and a determination to deliver something worthy of the community,” he said.

“They have already been instrumental in finding practical cost-saving and value-engineering solutions, and they are eager to get to work. We know the community looks forward to a hall built not only with skill, but with heart.”

The CSRD had to borrow $3 million to help finance the new fire hall. Construction is expected be complete in August.