Overhaul of 74-Year-Old Malibu Fire Station in the Works

The $8.2 million overhaul of Los Angeles County Fire Station No. 71 in Malibu will go before the city's Planning Commission next week.

The project calls for the demolition of the station, which was built in 1939 and renovated in the 1960s. It no longer meets the operational needs of the department, and a temporary awning next to the building houses the station's fire engine.

"Further, Station 71 does not provide adequate living accommodations for residing firefighters, such as separate shower and living facilities for male and female staff, contain ADA compliant facilities for the public, or contain sufficient office space to effectively service the surrounding community - this applies to both day-to-day operations and immediate services during city and regional emergencies," according to a city staff report.

The plans for the 5,800-square-foot station include a kitchen, dining room, day room, office space, two full bathrooms, six individual dormitories and a bay large enough for two engines and a paramedic squad.

Construction is expected to last about a year and could begin as early as July 2013.

During construction of the new station, Station 71 personnel and equipment will be relocated to a temporary facility placed near the existing helipad just north of the lifeguard headquarters at Zuma Beach.

The helipad wil remain, but will be adjusted and re-striped to allow suffcient space.

The meeting is set for 6 p.m. June 3 at Malibu City Hall.