New ARFF Station Ready at Hilo International Airport
"Keeping airport users safe is an enormous responsibility that we take to heart. This new and improved fire station will help our dedicated state firefighters and emergency medical responders with their day to day responsibilities, which includes responding to emergencies," said Ford Fuchigami, the Hawaii Department of Transportation's director.
State and local officials and the Hawaii Department of Transportation's Airports Division personnel celebrated the opening of the new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) station at the Hilo International Airport last week. The new two-story, 21,000-square-foot facility includes an emergency operations center, four drive-through truck bays, a fueling area, and improved work and living quarters for firefighters.
Hawaii DOT reports the building accommodates larger ARFF vehicles and provides training facilities for firefighters. "Keeping airport users safe is an enormous responsibility that we take to heart. This new and improved fire station will help our dedicated state firefighters and emergency medical responders with their day to day responsibilities, which includes responding to emergencies," said Ford Fuchigami, the Hawaii Department of Transportation's director.
Nearly 87 percent of the $18.8 million total spent on the facility was provided by the Federal Aviation Administration, with the Airports Division providing the remaining $3 million. The new station is fully compliant with FAA requirements, according the the state agency.
"We extend our gratitude to the FAA leadership for their support and dedication in bringing these improvements to Hilo," said Ross Higashi, deputy director of the Airports Division. "We also thank the skilled firefighters and emergency medical responders who rush to an emergency when called upon."
Firefighters' move-in date will be coordinated with HDOT and the contractor to ensure there is no lapse in coverage during the transition to the new facility.