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The City of Wheeling held a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony of the new Wheeling Fire House today on Wheeling Island . Wheeling Mayor Nick Sparachane, Wheeling Island Councilman Vern Seals, and other members of city council were on hand today for the ceremony.

A plaque was unveiled recognizing Wheeling City Council, City Manager Robert Herron, City Engineer Conrad Slanina, and Director of Economic and Community Development Nancy Prager. The plaque also honored the memory of Robert Foster, Assistant Fire Chief, who died in the line of duty on October 29, 1991 and the late Bertha Mackey who left her estate to the Wheeling Fire Department last year.

The $1.25 million firehouse replaces the antiquated single bay Station 5 firehouse on Zane Street that was built in 1938. The new, 6,833 square foot firehouse is located on North Wabash Street near Zane Street . The firehouse is equipped with three truck bays for Engine 5, the Regional Emergency Response Vehicles, and will also house the Fire Department's boat during the winter months. The living quarters feature a full kitchen and shared living/dining space as well as two semi-private bedrooms plus captain's bedroom and office. There is also a shower rinsing area for the firemen when the return from a call.

The building is designed to resist flood damage with vents at the bottom floor line installed to equalize pressure of flood water. All living space was placed on the second floor, which is out of the floodplain. Additionally, there is a platform generator at the top of the 35-foot hose tower. All mechanical equipment is also on the second level.

The architect, Christina Schlessler of McKinley & Associates, designed the building to accommodate the modern fireman and to fit into the neighborhood, while still having the qualities of a traditional firehouse with a look that is recognizable from the street.