Firemen’s Shelter to be built on St. Feriole Island
Ground has been cleared on St. Feriole Island for the construction of a Firemen’s Shelter. (Photo by Ted Pennekamp)
By Ted Pennekamp
The Prairie du Chien Fire Association will be building a shelter on St. Feriole Island along Villa Louis Road near the Halls of Terror building.
“It’s a venue that’s needed in the city,” said Fire Chief Tad Beutin, who noted that the shelter will be 100 feet x 40 feet and constructed of wood with a steel roof.
“It will hold over 200 people for an event,” said Beutin. “It will be the biggest shelter on the island.” Beutin said the shelter will be used by the Fire Association for the flea market during Rendezvous weekend each year. There will be beer and a band at the shelter during the flea market.
Other than the flea market, the shelter will be available for use by the public on a first come, first serve basis for events. People wishing to use the shelter will need to get a permit from the city prior to holding their event.
Beutin said it is hoped the shelter will be completed in time for the flea market next year. He said the shelter will be constructed by the Fire Association according to state approved plans. The shelter still needs approval by the City Plan Commission and the Wisconsin DNR. Beutin said the shelter will have electricity and water but no bathrooms. It is hoped concrete will be poured this fall.
The shelter will cost an estimated $60,000, with the city of Prairie du Chien paying $30,000. The Fire Association has $30,000 which was raised through their flea market events and Christmas tree sales.
The shelter may end up costing more than $60,000, however, so donations from the public are welcome, said Beutin. Individuals or organizations wishing to donate to the shelter can call (608) 379-4551 or the Prairie du Chien Fire Department at (608) 326-4365.
