The mayor and fire chief are looking forward to the long-awaited renovation of the fire station

FOLLANSBEE, W.Va. – Follansbee has received a $2.7 million state grant to upgrade its firehouse, originally built in 1957.

The project includes the addition of three new bays, bringing the total from four to five. This modernization will improve the fire department’s capacity to house and maintain its emergency vehicles and equipment. Currently, the concrete floor of the fire station near a bay is damaged. A hole in the concrete exposed the iron connection of the bars below, exposing the basement below.

“It is very old and needs to be modernized,” said Mayor David Velegol. “Just from a structural point of view it needs to be modernized and some of the floor needs to be really reinforced with the heavier vehicles that are on it now, and also from a technology standpoint.

The renovation will also introduce new, modern amenities, including new office space and a training room with a dedicated skills development area. There will also be a training room to support the physical needs of first responders and a community room for public gatherings.

“Nothing will be torn down, but it will be gutted and rebuilt from top to bottom,” said Chief Larry Rea. “I can’t wait.” They always say good things are worth waiting for, and we’ve been waiting for this for a while.

The new design will honor its historic roots by incorporating remnants of the first firehouse in Follansbee.

“We have the original bell from when the fire department opened in 1906 when the local council formed the original volunteer fire department,” Rea said. “It was a one-bay garage with a small tower above the garage that housed the bell.”

Velegol praised Follansbee grantee Joe Edmiston of Edmiston Development for his assistance in securing the recent grants.

“Ultimately, we have put a lot of work and effort into the City of Follansbee grants for over 2,700 people who are slated to receive $20 million in grants,” Velegol said.

The fire station is shovel-ready and Velegol said the project will be put out to tender within the next two months.

The renovation marks a new chapter for the fire department, preserving its heritage while ensuring it meets the needs of modern emergency services.