A long-vacant fire hall in Walker County is finally set to receive long-awaited renovations after county leaders approved new contracts to restart the stalled project.
Walker County spokesperson Joe Legge told WTVC-TV that the Hinkle Fire Hall has sat empty for more than a decade, with the interior unused since 2015. Plans to renovate the building were delayed after repair costs exceeded the county’s budget, and attempts to secure a new contractor in 2024 resulted in bids that were also over budget.
That changed Thursday when the Walker County Commission approved resolutions allowing work to resume, following what Legge described as a fair and workable contract agreement.
Walker County Commissioner Gene Wilson says the vacant fire hall has been a frequent concern among residents during his nearly two years in office. He noted that funding for the project will come from 2020 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, or SPLOST, dollars.
Walker County Fire Chief Blake Hodge says completing the fire hall is expected to help the county attract additional volunteer firefighters, strengthening fire protection services in the area.
The county has reached a contract agreement with Victory Construction, which estimates the total cost of the renovation at just over $447,000. Additional approved expenses include a $42,060 generator to be supplied by Standby Service Solutions of LaFayette and a new sprinkler system to be installed by Summit Fire and Security at a cost of $44,760.
Once completed, county officials say the renovated Hinkle Fire Hall will return to service after years of sitting unused.