White Rock Approves $410,000 Contract for Historic Fire Truck Display

The City of White Rock has awarded a contract for the construction of a permanent display for a historic fire truck. The decision came during a council meeting on September 15, 2023, where members voted to approve the project aimed at honoring the city’s firefighting heritage.

The vintage fire truck, modified in the early 1930s from a 1925 Studebaker sedan chassis, has a storied past. Initially purchased shortly after the formation of the White Rock Fire Department in 1933, it served the community for 14 years before being decommissioned in 1948. Currently, the truck is stored at the city’s parks maintenance yard in Centennial Park. It is set to be displayed in a fully covered glass structure adjacent to the fire vehicle bays at White Rock Fire Hall, located at 15315 Pacific Avenue.

The truck is now owned by White Rock Firefighters Local 2407 and has undergone several ownership changes and restorations. In 2010, it was returned to its original White Rock colors. Jim Gordon, the city’s engineering and municipal operations director, informed the council that the truck would be formally gifted to the city as a tribute to its firefighting legacy.

“The antique fire truck display project is a community initiative that celebrates the legacy of the White Rock Fire Department by preserving a meaningful piece of local history,” Gordon stated.

Contract Details and Budget Overview

The council voted in favor of awarding the contract for the display structure to the lowest bidder, Hilson Construction, for a total of $410,000. The project will also enlist Miza Architects as the construction manager for an additional $26,965, both figures excluding GST. The estimated total cost of the project is approximately $506,137, which remains under the previously approved budget of $547,000 as outlined in the 2025 Financial Plan.

City staff sought and received pre-authorization for a $100,000 contingency fund, intended to be used only if necessary to support the project. In a report presented to the council, engineering manager Corrine Haer highlighted that the display structure will feature permeable paving, accessory setbacks, and a custom enclosure designed specifically for the truck’s dimensions. “The design prioritizes accessibility, environmental stewardship, and harmony with the surrounding civic landscape,” Haer added.

Council Response and Community Impact

Councillor Elaine Cheung, who moved the recommendations from the corporate report, emphasized that the decision to relocate the historic vehicle was initiated by a previous council. “We’re just finishing it off,” she remarked during the meeting.

The only dissenting vote came from Councillor Christopher Trevelyan. He expressed his concerns regarding the project’s cost, stating, “I’m not against the idea. I just think half a million is too high to spend for something like this at this time.”

The project reflects a broader commitment to preserving local history and honoring the contributions of the White Rock Fire Department. As the display comes to fruition, it aims to engage community members and visitors alike, celebrating a significant piece of the city’s heritage.