The City of Madison Fire Department invites the community to join in for the Grand Opening and Dedication of City Fire Station #12.

The newly-completed firehouse is located at 400 South Point Road on Madison's far west side. The Grand Opening will begin at 2 p.m. on Monday, August 24.

Plans for the event include a hose uncoupling in lieu of a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Following the ceremony, the public will be invited to tour the building.

Station #12 was built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards. A platinum certification is anticipated.

Among the noteworthy design elements:
•A geo exchange system that is the sole source for heating and cooling the building
•A green roof with vegetation in place of conventional roofing materials
•Solar heating panels for the building's hot water needs
•Xeriscaping that reduces the amount of high-maintenance turf in the landscaping
•A storm water collection system for general non-potable water use

The station is being named in memory of Dr. Darren Bean, the Department's former Medical Director. Dr. Bean died in a Med Flight crash in May, 2008. A memorial plaque for Dr. Bean will be unveiled as part of the dedication ceremonies.

Dr. Bean's widow, Dr. Stacey Bean is scheduled to attend the ceremony, along with Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin, Mayor Dave Cieslewicz, west side Alder Paul Skidmore, and Madison Fire Chief Debra Amesqua.

Following the ceremonies, the public will be invited to tour the station. Younger guests may participate in a scavenger hunt. Light refreshments will be served in the station's Community Room.