White Rock council awards contract for permanent glass display of city’s first fire truck, preserving heritage with strong design and budget oversight.
Centrepiece Returns to Public View
White Rock has approved construction of a permanent display for its antique fire truck, bringing back into view the city’s very first fire vehicle. Council voted on September 15 to award the contract for the project at its regular meeting.
A Piece of Local Firefighting History
Adapted in the early 1930s from a 1925 Studebaker sedan chassis, this vintage truck was purchased soon after the formation of the White Rock Fire Department in 1933. It served the community for 14 years until being decommissioned in 1948. Since then, it has passed through a number of owners and undergone restorations, returning to White Rock colours in 2010.
Where & How It Will Be Displayed
The truck, currently stored at Centennial Park’s parks maintenance yard, will be relocated to a custom-built, fully covered glass enclosure beside the existing vehicle bays at White Rock’s fire hall, located at 15315 Pacific Avenue. The design includes permeable paving, accessory setbacks, and will be tailored to the truck’s dimensions.
Cost, Contracts & Budget Discipline
The display structure contract was awarded to low-bidder Hilson Construction for $410,000, with display designer Miza Architects retained as construction manager for $26,965 (both amounts before GST). The projected total cost of $506,137, which includes design work and arborist monitoring, remains under the budget approved in the 2025 Financial Plan of $547,000. A contingency fund of $100,000 has also been pre-authorized should unforeseen expenses arise.
Why The Project Matters to White Rock
Municipal Engineering Director Corrine Haer emphasized that the design will prioritize accessibility, environmental considerations, and fitting with the civic landscape. The display aims to commemorate the legacy of the White Rock Fire Department, and to preserve a tangible piece of the city’s heritage, according to Jim Gordon, White Rock’s engineering & municipal operations director, who said the truck is intended to be formally gifted to the city.
Voices: Support & Concern
Most councillors supported the project: Coun. Elaine Cheung reminded the council that this initiative was originally approved by the former council, saying this is simply “finishing it off.” The only dissenting voice was Coun. Christopher Trevelyan, who argued the cost — nearly half a million dollars — is excessive given other priorities at this time.
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