The fire station, located just north of U.S. Highway 81 between 46th and 47th avenues, got off to a bit of a rocky construction start because of cold winter weather and delays associated with the March flooding. But, a window of clear weather has propelled the project forward leading into June.

Fire Chief Dan Miller said that the bones of the structure are now intact, which includes the spacious area which will house the aerials and ambulances, as well as the area that will serve as dormitories and office/training space.

The facility is scheduled to be up and running sometime this year. After the shaky start, Miller said that he is pleased with the direction of the construction.

Like the fire station, the new police station is making leaps and bounds toward its finish. Mayor Jim Bulkley recently was making his way downtown and was nearly caught by surprise with how much progress is happening.

“I came into downtown last week from St. Bons (church) from the east and I didn’t even realize the brick on the east side of the police station is all in,” Bulkley said. “The police station, specifically, is really moving at just a great pace and we are hoping for the late fall opening, and I see that happening.

A few other noteworthy business actions are happening around town. Pillen Family Farms has broken ground on a plot of land just north of Columbus Community Hospital along Lost Creek Parkway and is planning to erect its new corporate facility on the site, business representative Sarah Pillen said. The business is currently headquartered at 3214 25th st.

In other community business news:

*The vacant Kum & Go location at 711 33rd Ave. is being replaced by a Parkview Express, according to a post made by its new operators earlier this week. The business is tentatively expected to open the last week in June. Full and part-time employees are being hired. To learn more, call 402-201-4452.

*iDance Project Performing Arts Center, 3409 21st St., is moving to a new location along West 23rd Street directly beside Super Buffet.

Sam Pimper is the news editor of The Columbus Telegram. Reach him via email at sam.pimper@lee.net.

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