UPDATE: Nahant is actively advancing plans for a critical public-safety building that may combine the town’s police and fire stations. This urgent initiative follows the issuance of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a feasibility study, with Context Architecture awarded the contract after a competitive evaluation process.
Town Administrator Alison Nieto reported that the town has been collaborating with Context Architecture since October 2023. The firm is currently conducting a comprehensive space-needs analysis and inspecting the existing police and fire facilities. “Both are in desperate need of renovation,” Nieto emphasized during the latest update.
The analysis revealed significant issues, including non-compliant holding cells at the police station and inadequate space for the current staff. “We are working through what we have and what the industry standards are for fire engine bays and police cruiser parking,” Nieto stated, signaling the urgency of the situation.
The feasibility study aims to determine the best course of action—whether to renovate the existing structures, build new facilities, or create a combined public-safety building. The study is expected to yield a strategic plan by the end of this analysis phase.
Several potential sites for the new facilities have been identified, including locations next to the Department of Public Works, behind the current police station, and near the Nahant Country Club. However, concerns arise over the fire station’s location within a flood zone, complicating planning efforts.
“Now we’re working to see where, logistically, the Town would want either station to be or if a combined building is feasible,” Nieto explained. The urgency of this project is underscored by the necessity for approval at the upcoming Town Meeting, where final decisions will be made.
Both Fire Chief Austin Antrim and Police Chief Timothy Furlong have been deeply involved in the process, participating in site walkthroughs and discussions with Context Architecture. “It’s become a lot of work for each party,” Nieto noted, highlighting the collaborative effort required to address the town’s crucial public safety needs.
This ongoing study is a vital step for Nahant, impacting not only the town’s emergency response capabilities but also the well-being and safety of its residents. Keep an eye out for further developments as the feasibility study progresses and the Town Meeting approaches.
