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New fire station for Lockport Township FPD (more)
In a recent article from the HeraldNews.com, there's a touching story about how time has brought change to the Lockport Township Fire Protection District. Don "Randy" Randich, who was part of the very first firefighting crew back in 1960, had the rare opportunity to return to the newly renovated Station 1 last week. Now, decades later, he's the only surviving member of that original team. Sitting inside the remodeled building, he shared his thoughts: "I served for 42 years and worked under six different chiefs. Back then, this station was considered one of the best in Illinois. This place is incredible—it’s stunning! It feels like coming home, meeting everyone again as if we're still one big family."
The dedication ceremony took place on Friday morning, kicking off at 10 o'clock. Chief David Skoryi and Captain John Batusich, along with several trustees, firefighters, and community members, participated in a traditional hose and coupling ceremony. Following some opening remarks by Chief Skoryi and Captain Batusich, everyone moved outside for a flag-raising ceremony. The Lockport Township Firefighters Local #1544 Honor Guard carried the flags to their respective poles attached to the building.
Afterward, Reverend Mark Hein led a prayer, followed by a hose-coupling ceremony. Trustees Paul Siegel, Henry Meader, Dave Palya, Bill Kendziora, and Gordon McCluskey, alongside union President Pat Kelly and Captain Batusich, held the ceremonial hose.
As Chief Skoryi explained, the decision to renovate came in 2010 after discussions with the senior staff and trustees. They identified numerous problems with the aging structure, including outdated HVAC systems, electrical issues, sewer line concerns, and a need for modern technology. After consulting with architects, they discovered that remodeling would cost nearly 75% of constructing a brand-new building, prompting the decision to rebuild entirely.
Demolition started on May 25, 2016, and during this period, the ambulance crew temporarily relocated to Station 6 while the fire engine moved to Station 4. One unique aspect of the new design is its attempt to blend into historic downtown Lockport. Outside, there are seven arches mirroring the iconic seven-arched bridge on Ninth Street. The apparatus room features bi-fold doors reminiscent of older firehouses, and instead of a standalone flagpole, the flags are mounted diagonally on the building itself.
Inside, however, the station is anything but old-fashioned. There are cutting-edge dispatch systems with LED lighting and digital signboards. The living quarters are more spacious, with heated floors in the apparatus bay, enough room for larger vehicles, and even a diesel exhaust capture system.
Interestingly, the original Station 1 dates back to 1897 when it was located on East 10th Street. It moved to the Adelman Garage in 1902, stayed there until 1937, and then relocated to the City of Lockport Building in 1938 before finally settling at its present location at 828 E. Ninth St. in 1960.
This renovation not only preserves history but also ensures that future generations of firefighters can continue their vital work in a modernized and safe environment.