The Monarch Fire Protection District is set to break ground for a training facility expansion project on land donated by Missouri American Water. The property is located at 911 John Pellet Court in Chesterfield.
First responders will also receive new search and rescue gear purchased with funds provided through the company’s annual Firefighter Grant Program. More than 30 grants were awarded this year to fire departments and emergency organizations serving communities in Missouri American Water service areas.
“We greatly appreciate the life-saving work our firefighters perform to protect our customers,” said Debbie Dewey, President of Missouri American Water. “We carefully plan and invest in our system to provide reliable water service, which is critical for fire protection. We’re thrilled to further support the Monarch Fire Protection District by donating the land for their expanded training facility and providing an award through our Firefighter Grant Program.”
The new 3,600 sq. ft. space will be designed to be compliant to life safety codes and flood plain criteria. It will include:
- A large pavilion for firefighters to practice live fire and rescue drills,
- An indoor 30-student classroom, and
- A storage enclosure capable of securing equipment necessary for modern training facilities.
“Nearing the expiration of the lease and while negotiating an extension, the Missouri American Water Company graciously offered to donate the property to the Fire District,” said Chief Cary Spiegel of Monarch Fire Protection District. “The Training Facility will provide training opportunities where we can partner with the private sector, the Water Company for example, and train with those employees on specific hazards faced in those fields.”
The projected completion date is Spring 2021.
