The Town of Nahant is actively assessing the feasibility of constructing a new public-safety building that would integrate both police and fire services. Town Administrator Alison Nieto provided an update on the project, highlighting the recent steps taken to move forward.
“We issued a Request for Proposal for a public-safety building feasibility study,” Nieto explained. The town received four responses, ultimately selecting Context Architecture for the project after an evaluation process. The contract was awarded to the firm in October 2023, and they have since begun their analysis.
A critical initial step involved conducting a space-needs analysis of the existing police and fire stations. According to Nieto, the walkthroughs revealed significant deficiencies in both facilities. “Both are in desperate need of renovation,” she stated. The feasibility study will explore options, including renovating the current buildings, constructing new facilities, or creating a combined public-safety structure.
Nieto emphasized the urgency of addressing compliance issues with the police station’s holding cells, which do not meet state regulations. The current space is insufficient for the number of staff serving the community. “Based on this needs analysis, the company walks through the sites to see what we currently have, and then they see what the industry standard is like for fire engine bays or parking for police cruisers,” she said.
Several potential sites for new construction have been evaluated, including locations adjacent to the Department of Public Works, behind the existing police station, around the Nahant Country Club, and at the current fire station, which is situated in a flood zone. Nieto noted that logistical considerations will play a key role in determining the final location for either station or a combined facility.
“Now we’re working to see where, logistically, the Town would want either station to be, or a combined building,” she added. The aim of the feasibility study is to develop a concrete plan by the end of the analysis phase. Once completed, the proposal will be presented at a Town Meeting, where community members will have the opportunity to weigh in on the future of public safety in Nahant.
Nieto underscored the collaborative nature of this endeavor, mentioning the involvement of both Fire Chief Austin Antrim and Police Chief Timothy Furlong throughout the process. Staff members have participated in discussions and site evaluations with Context Architecture, reflecting a commitment to thorough planning.
While neither chief was available for comment, their engagement indicates a proactive approach to enhancing public safety infrastructure in Nahant. As the town progresses through the feasibility study, community input will be vital in shaping the future of its emergency services.
