The Keystone Valley Fire Department is in the midst of a $3 million campaign to update its Parkesburg fire station.

Two weeks ago, an anonymous local foundation issued a challenge to KVFD, stating that it would match all new gifts raised toward the building campaign dollar for dollar, up to $500,000. Less than a week later, Drs. John and Dirk Hagen of Opera Dental in Parkesburg were the first members of the community to accept that challenge, with a combined pledge of $7,500 to the campaign.

“I appreciate the dedication and attention to detail I’ve experienced in every interaction I’ve had with the Keystone Valley Fire Department,” said Dirk. “They took the time and initiative to ask if they could examine the structure of our office building so they’d be prepared in case of a fire. The cost savings to the community because we have such proactive, dedicated, and well-trained volunteers is amazing, and I’m incredibly grateful they are here.”

The KVFD began operations in 2013 by consolidating the Atglen Fire Company, the Parkesburg Fire Company No. 1, and the Pomeroy Volunteer Fire Company No. 1. In June of 2014, volunteers from the former Martin’s Corner Fire Company also joined KVFD.

The consolidation of manpower and resources from these companies has resulted in increased efficiency and a decrease in redundant resources.

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Consolidation, though, also brought its own set of challenges. The majority of KVFD’s combined fleet, as well as its administrative offices, are now located at its main station at 329 West First Avenue in downtown Parkesburg. This facility has been in operation for 82 years, and the aging infrastructure requires constant maintenance and upkeep.

The investment needed to renovate the facility is approximately $3 million. KVFD has already committed $875,000 of its savings to the project, and will be seeking tax-deductible gifts in order to offset the remaining cost.

An integral part of the KVFD renovation project is a partnership with the Parkesburg Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post #4480. With the VFW’s assistance, KVFD will construct a new Veteran’s Memorial Garden in front of the building. This area will commemorate all local veterans who have perished in every major conflict; will contain a 9/11 memorial; and will recognize local firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

For more information on giving a gift to the campaign, please contact Steph Klingler at 610-496-4592. Checks can be mailed to KVFD, 329 W. 1st Avenue, Parkesburg, PA 19365.

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