Old Waukee Fire Station to Become New Community Center

It’s been vacant since April, but soon the old fire station at Seventh and Walnut streets will get new life as the Waukee Community Center.

The 2,700-square foot building was built in 1966 to house the city’s water treatment plant and later became the city’s only fire station. When the new Public Works building opened at 805 University Ave., the space emptied out for good.

“It’s pretty rough at this point,” said Brad Deets, Waukee Development Services director. “It’s pretty bare bones, but has a good, solid foundation. It’s going to be a good place for a community center.”

The city of Waukee currently rents space at 410 Sixth St. that houses its only community center. The city pays St. Boniface Catholic Church $1,500 per month to rent the space and also pays additional expenses such as property taxes and maintenance.

City leaders agreed that it was time to make a more sound investment in the building’s future.

“This is a historic building,” said Waukee Councilwoman Darlene Stanton. “I’m glad the choice is to preserve it, put money into it and to have it as a permanent fixture in our community.”

The City Council approved $400,000 for the project. The city has already received two estimates that ranged from $200,000 to $350,000. It's still unknown what the center will need in terms of renovation.

Deets said the council will begin the design process soon. He said residents will be active decision-makers in the project, working with project managers and city leaders to determine what the community center should offer.

City officials hope the center is open by the summer of 2012.

“It’s a continuation of our investment in the downtown area, the original part of Waukee, “ Deets said. “I think this is a good investment in Waukee. It’s a win-win for everyone.”