Lexington Fire Department to Conduct Training in Scheduled-for-Demolition Building at Future High Density Apartment Site

Lexington, Ky.–The Lexington Fire Department will conduct two weeks of hands-on training in a scheduled-for-demolition commercial building in early April. The training will allow firefighters to practice a variety of skills, including stretching hose, cutting ventilation holes, forcing doors, and searching for victims.

The training is scheduled to take place from March 28 to April 7. The building is located at 340 Legion Dr.

After demolition, the land will be used to construct an approximately $13 million, 3-story, 105-unit apartment building.

The apartments are designed to attract young working professionals, be pet-friendly, and include all utilities, cable, internet, and lifestyle services in the rental pricing.

“Flexibility is key in today’s environment; this community aims to make the rental experience as smooth as possible,” said Carson Baughman, Senior Project Manager with Cowgill Partners, the developer of the apartment building. “Residents won’t have to worry about dealing with utility accounts after their move, our management team will take care of it all.”

A city news release says the fire training is a valuable opportunity for Lexington firefighters to gain experience in a realistic setting. “This is a unique opportunity for our members to gain valuable experience conducting training exercises that are otherwise difficult to simulate,” said Training Battalion Chief Jordan Saas with the Lexington Fire Department. “More than 200 firefighters will take turns stretching hose, cutting ventilation holes, forcing doors, practicing large area search and rescue, and more.”

The training is scheduled to take place during regular business hours and will not impact residents in the surrounding area.

“We are grateful to Cowgill for bringing this opportunity to us,” Saas said. “This training will help us to better prepare for emergencies and keep our community safe.”

At their March 23 meeting, Council approved an Ordinance changing the zone from a Neighborhood Business (B-1) zone to a High Rise Apartment (R-5) zone for the property. The Planning Commission has unanimously approved the change, as well.