Manhattan Fire Protection District: Strengthening Public Safety and Community Growth
The Manhattan Fire Protection District has a clear mission: responding to the needs of the community by providing fire suppression, emergency medical services, fire prevention and education in a safe and effective manner. With the construction of a new fire station, the department is enhancing its ability to serve residents by improving response times and supporting future growth for both the department and the community.
When designing the new facility, reliability and efficiency were top priorities. Natural gas was the clear choice to meet those needs, offering dependable, cost-effective energy and backup power during outages. The station’s rooftop heaters, kitchen appliances and backup generators all operate on natural gas, ensuring that critical operations remain uninterrupted even in emergency situations.
The project wasn’t without its challenges. Navigating construction around a BP Pipeline required careful planning and coordination. “The project had initial challenges,” shared Steve Malone, Manhattan Fire Chief, “but once we had a plan, everything started to fall into place and run smoothly after that.”
Nicor Gas played an important role in helping the district bring this project to life. Marc Rich, NPL Foreman, who was part of the crew installing the new gas main and service, noted that “this project was the nicest, most peaceful project I’ve been a part of in the last 10 years.”
The new natural gas infrastructure not only supports the Manhattan Fire Protection District’s new building but also strengthens the upcoming merger with the Peotone Fire Department, ensuring both communities have access to reliable, efficient energy for years to come.
As a cornerstone of public safety, education, and community resilience, the Manhattan Fire Protection District continues to protect people, property and the long-term well-being of the community it proudly serves, now with the reliable energy of natural gas helping keep operations strong and sustainable.