In January 2021, L. Keeley Construction broke ground on Valley Park Fire Protection District Station No. 2, located at 55 Crescent Avenue in Valley Park, Mo.

JEMA designed the two-story, 22,000-SF building while keeping the sloping hill at the site in mind in an effort to maintain the natural terrain, which allowed incorporating some unique features for the fire station as well.

"Native stone and metal panels are juxtaposed on the exterior creating a well-balanced palette. The building is integrated into a sloping hill so that the high point of the structure is also the high point of the hill, creating a "visual beacon" for the Valley Park community," said Steve Hoover, JEMA project manager and principal.

The District provides fire, emergency medical and rescue services for the municipalities of the City of Valley Park, the City of Twin Oaks, the City of Manchester, the City of Ballwin and portions of unincorporated St. Louis County.

"We believe every city has its own personality and we honor the unique identity and history of each municipality and district. We want to set ourselves apart by designing environments that are a celebration of the site and the distinct qualities of the place. The new Fire Station No. 2 will provide the district with a state-of-the-art mission critical hub while enhancing the character of Valley Park, Mo.," said John Mueller, JEMA managing partner.

According to its website, The District was created by popular vote in April 1967 and encompasses approximately 10 square miles in southwest St. Louis County. The estimated population of the District is 17,000.

The mission-critical facility is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2021.