The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) is moving ahead with long-awaited upgrades to emergency response infrastructure on Mount Washington, confirming that construction of the new fire hall is scheduled to start in early Spring 2026.
Building tenders were released in October 2025, with project mobilization expected once winter conditions clear, allowing crews to safely access the mountain site.
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Edwin Grieve, Electoral Area C Director and chair of the Electoral Areas Services Committee, said the project reflects years of planning and community input. “I’m excited to see plans moving forward for fire hall construction up on Mount Washington,” Grieve said. “The Mount Washington Mountain Centre and subsequent fire hall are a testament to the need for community support in that area in providing community amenities while developing a proper emergency response station for residents and visitors up on Mount Washington.”
The new fire hall will include multiple truck bays designed to house fire engines, rescue vehicles, and essential emergency response equipment. The facility is also expected to provide improved operational space for volunteer firefighters, including training areas, gear storage and a dedicated dispatch and coordination area.
CVRD leaders say the new fire hall will dramatically improve emergency response times for fire, medical and rescue calls in the high-altitude community — particularly during winter months when travel is more challenging and the area sees increased recreation traffic.
The CVRD took possession of the Mountain Centre property on Feb. 1, 2025, and has since adapted the space to serve a wide variety of local needs. The facility currently supports:
Staff are working alongside CVRD Recreation to ensure the building remains actively used and financially sustainable. Existing organizations — including the Strathcona Nordic Ski Club — will continue to benefit from access to the space.
The project will be financed through a mix of short-term debt and provincial support, including Community Works Funds from the Union of BC Municipalities and the BC Growing Communities Fund.
Community leaders say that adding a permanent fire hall is crucial to supporting the region’s tourism economy and ensuring a safer environment for those who live, work and visit the mountain — especially given ongoing development and increased visitor traffic at Mount Washington Alpine Resort.
Construction progress and tender details will be shared publicly as the project advances. More information is available at: www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/mwfire
Originally reported by Comox Valley Record Staff in Comox Valley Record.
