Firemen’s Shelter taking shape on St. Feriole Island
Construction of the Firemen’s Shelter was underway Thursday, Sept. 22. (Photo by Ted Pennekamp)
By Ted Pennekamp
Construction is continuing and the Firemen’s Shelter on St. Feriole Island in Prairie du Chien is taking shape.
The Prairie du Chien Fire Association is building the shelter 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.
When completed, the shelter will hold more than 200 people for an event and 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 is being constructed by the Fire Association according to state approved plans. The shelter has gotten approval by the City Plan Commission and the Wisconsin DNR. Beutin said the shelter will have electricity and water but no bathrooms.
The shelter will cost an estimated $80,000, perhaps more, 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.
Donations for the shelter 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.
