Construction is underway on Castle Rock Fire Station 156 and a new Logistics Center, a project that will strengthen emergency response and support services for one of Colorado’s fastest-growing communities.

Owen-Ames-Kimball joined the Town of Castle Rock, Castle Rock Fire and Rescue, and project partners to mark the start of construction. As Construction Manager/General Contractor, O-A-K is working alongside RS&H and Dunakilly Management Group to deliver a facility designed to support both frontline response and the behind-the-scenes operations that keep it running.

The project combines a new fire station with a dedicated logistics and fleet maintenance facility—an investment aimed at improving response times, increasing operational efficiency, and ensuring first responders have the resources they need to serve the community.

“This station will help us continue to respond quickly when people need us most,” said Fire Chief Norris Croom. “Fire Station 156 strengthens our coverage in northeast Castle Rock and gives our crews the resources they need to serve residents safely and effectively.”

Early in the process, the team worked together to relocate the building outside of an existing floodplain. The adjustment introduced added complexity, including additional excavation, extended utilities, and the installation of a 30-foot soil nail retaining wall. By addressing these challenges during design and preconstruction, the team was able to maintain the building’s overall program while setting the project up for long-term performance.

Once complete, the facility will support the department’s Logistics Division and Fleet Support team, which oversees the maintenance and coordination of emergency response vehicles. The new station will also expand coverage for surrounding neighborhoods, helping the department keep pace with continued growth in Castle Rock.

This project reflects a shared commitment between the Town and its partners to invest in infrastructure that directly supports public safety and community well-being. O-A-K is proud to partner with Castle Rock Fire and Rescue and the broader project team to bring this facility to life.

Join O-A-K team members Dave Fleece and Trevor Anderson, along with Kristin Pfauth from the City of Grand Rapids, for a tour of the Archives & Records Center. While only about 10 percent of the city’s collection is on display at the public museum, the remaining 90 percent, over a quarter million items, are housed here at the archives.

This project will create a bright, open space designed for access and collaboration. Visitors will be able to request items, collector groups can gather, and teachers can bring students for hands-on learning experiences. One classroom will feature a retractable glass wall, allowing the space to be opened up or closed off as needed, while a permanent glass wall will offer visitors a direct view into the archives, connecting the public to the city’s rich history.

Owen-Ames-Kimball (O-A-K) has completed Phase II renovations of the Cohen Student Union at Florida Gulf Coast University. The new updates deliver a revitalized, student-centered space designed to foster connection, collaboration, and campus engagement, while finishing the project one month ahead of schedule.

Originally constructed by O-A-K more than 20 years ago, the Cohen Student Union holds long-standing significance for the firm. FGCU’s decision to partner once again with O-A-K for this next phase reflects the strength of that relationship and confidence in the firm’s ability to deliver complex renovations in an active campus environment. The project was designed by RG Architects.

Phase II renovations focused on enhancing gathering and meeting spaces throughout the facility. A major component of the project included enclosing the former outdoor atrium located between Einstein Bros. Bagels and the food court, transforming it into a bright, modern interior entry space. Visitors are now welcomed by a new seating area and a relocated information booth that improves functionality and flow.

The renovated interior features high ceilings, expansive windows, circular pendant lighting, and a long counter with seating. A newly constructed staircase connects the first and second floors, improving circulation and visibility within the student union.

The second floor now includes three conference-style rooms that provide collaborative meeting space for students and student organizations, along with a new seating area overlooking the first floor.

Construction was completed in 11 months, ahead of the original 12-month schedule, despite the need to coordinate work around weekly campus events. O-A-K credits this success to close collaboration with FGCU’s Facilities and Events teams, whose partnership helped maintain steady progress throughout the project.

“We are proud to return to the Cohen Student Union and deliver updates that support FGCU’s students and campus life,” said Jim Hopper, Florida Division President of Owen-Ames-Kimball. “Completing this renovation ahead of schedule speaks to the strength of our partnership with FGCU and the dedication of our project team—many of whom have deep personal ties to the university.”

O-A-K extends special recognition to its project team, including Brian Filipek, Carlos Rapalo—both FGCU graduates—Ferrell Clark, Marco Garcia, and several FGCU interns who contributed meaningfully throughout the project.

In keeping with O-A-K’s commitment to workforce development and education, the firm hosted multiple FGCU Construction Management classes on-site during construction, providing students with firsthand exposure to an active renovation project and real-world learning experience.

O-A-K’s Florida operation is an affiliate of its parent company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Lee County office is located at 11941 Fairway Lakes Drive in Fort Myers. Learn more about O-A-K at www.owen-ames-kimball.com or call (239) 561-4141.

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