This historic renovation and restoration project was a labor of love. Paul Fermano was fortunate to be part of the Town of Reading’s team of professionals, engaged to preserve the town’s central fire station, which first went into service in the late 1880’s.

The building had many of the original details modified or removed to meet the needs of the apparatus as it evolved over the decades. The weight of the vehicles increased as well doing significant damage to the main floor structure.

Once the structural issues were resolved, the real work of historic restoration began when the masons began to restore the roman arches and other brick veneer details. At the same time, we worked closely with the carpenters to restore the stick-style turret, which served as the hose-drying tower, and now will act as the elevator shaft. The new mechanical systems now fill the attic, which over time became the depository of all things not needed by the fire department. This became the source of many objects for the Town’s new historical display of the equipment and uniforms of the fire brigades for the last century or more.

The building’s new role is to serve a very large and active senior population. The main activity room also serves the community as a public meeting room when needed. The “Meals-on-Wheels” program for the town is operated out of the new kitchen and prep room in the basement.