Construction of new Roseneath emergency services base underway

Construction of a new emergency services base for Roseneath, Ont., officially got underway Tuesday with a groundbreaking ceremony at the site on County Road 45.

Officials from Northumberland County and the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand put shovels in the ground to kick off the build of the new joint paramedic/fire facility. Roseneath is approximately 30 kilometres north of Cobourg (50 km south of Peterborough).

“It is exciting when we can celebrate a groundbreaking ceremony in Alnwick/Haldimand, and deliver something of such value to the community,” stated John Logel, county councillor and mayor of the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand.

“With existing bases for both services in Roseneath coming to the point where they no longer meet operational needs, this shared facility really makes sense, and we are very pleased to be partnering with the county to make this possible.”

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Construction is estimated to cost $3.8 million, with each municipality contributing based on the square footage to be occupied by each service. Logel says the shared facility aims to create new opportunities for communication and collaboration between first responders. The sharing of services also aims to reduce costs related to cleaning, snow removal, landscaping and other requirements.

“Shared services continues to be an important focus for county council,” stated Warden Mark Walas. “This base will be another expression of this commitment. It is also a wonderful opportunity to enhance partnerships between our first responders, who often work so closely together when supporting our residents facing emergency situations. Through this shared space, they can continue to build upon these connections, and strengthen the vital care and expertise they deliver to our community.”

Construction is expected to be completed by the fall of 2018.