UPDATE: The Town of Nahant is taking significant steps towards enhancing community safety by researching the feasibility of a combined public-safety building, aimed at housing both police and fire stations. Town Administrator Alison Nieto announced that a formal Request for Proposal has been issued, and the contract has been awarded to Context Architecture, following their successful bid.
Nieto revealed that the feasibility study commenced in October 2023, with Context Architecture performing critical assessments of the existing facilities. “We walked through the current police station and fire station,” she stated. “Both are in desperate need of renovation.” This urgent analysis aims to determine whether to renovate the current buildings, construct new ones, or create a combined facility.
Key issues have been highlighted, including non-compliant holding cells in the police station and insufficient space for staff. “That’s what we’re working through right now,” Nieto added, emphasizing the importance of aligning the facilities with industry standards.
Potential sites for the new building have been identified, including locations adjacent to the Department of Public Works, behind the current police station, near the Nahant Country Club, and the existing fire station, which is notably located in a flood zone. “Now we’re working to see where, logistically, the Town would want either station to be, or a combined building,” she explained.
The results of this feasibility study are expected to provide a clear plan by the end of the analysis phase. However, any final decision will require approval at the Town Meeting. “This is a really important process that we’re going through,” Nieto stated, reflecting on the collaborative efforts between the fire and police departments.
“Both Fire Chief Austin Antrim and Police Chief Timothy Furlong have been very much involved,” Nieto noted. “During the space needs analysis, staff was there to answer questions and do the walkthroughs with Context Architecture.”
The urgency of this project cannot be overstated, as the safety and efficiency of emergency services in Nahant are at stake. The community is encouraged to stay informed as this crucial development unfolds.
Residents are urged to share their thoughts and concerns as the Town prepares to present findings at the upcoming Town Meeting. This is not just a planning exercise but a vital step towards ensuring adequate public safety for all Nahant residents.
