Over the years, Vernon Search and Rescue’s membership has grown along with the amount of equipment it uses to undertake different types of rescue missions.
This is why the RDNO has hoped to provide an additional expansion of the original location, but due to sensitive wetlands in the area, it was next to impossible.
In 2018, the public approved the borrowing of $3.5 million through an Alternative Approval Process, and since then, the RDNO and VSAR have worked hard to secure a location, determine facility needs, and ultimately get the project to the construction phase.
Now the facility is finally taking shape, as construction crews have erected the pre-fabricated steel frame.
“After much planning and site preparation, we are overjoyed to reach a milestone where you can physically see the shape of the building. It makes us even more excited to move into the new purpose-built space that will meet our needs far better than our current facility," said Mark Forsyth, Search Manager with VSAR.
"We are thankful to the RDNO Board of Directors and staff for your collaboration and efforts in this project thus far," said Forsyth.
Throughout the winter, crews will continue the construction process on focus on interior works, like plumbing, electrical, and drywall.
The project is anticipated to be completed one year from now, by the fall of 2023.
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