A city-owned building that needs to be demolished near the Union Street Dam is creating a unique training opportunity for the Traverse City Fire Department.

The building, located next to Parking Lot J on the south side of the Union Street Dam, was most recently used as a storage facility for lawn care, according to a city release. "Recognizing the necessity for demolition, the Department of Public Services (DPS) seized the opportunity to join forces with another department, utilizing the structure for training purposes," according to the release.

The training will begin Thursday (January 11) and last for several days. Demolition of the building will immediately follow and take approximately two days, weather permitting, according to the release. The building slated for demolition is located on the future site of the FishPass project. Construction on FishPass is expected to begin this spring, according to the release.

"With the impending need for the building's demolition, and the current mild winter conditions, the project not only addresses infrastructure needs, but also presents a unique training opportunity for the TCFD," according to DPS Director Frank Dituri. "This joint initiative underscores the city’s commitment to efficient resource utilization and interdepartmental collaboration.”

When available, the TCFD uses buildings slated for demolition for "destructive training." This involves the use of forcible entry tools, power saws, and other tools to train in the area of job performance requirements that will result in irreparable damage to walls, ceilings, floors, and roofs of structures that are scheduled for tear down and removal. Depending on the structure and the scope of the project, hose stream deployment operations can also be included on a site-by-site basis, according to the release.

"This training is invaluable as it is the closest to replicating actual fire and/or emergency extrication conditions," according to TCFD Chief Jim Tuller. "With the aid of training smoke machines, search and rescue operations for civilian victims, and incapacitated fire personnel can be practiced in a safe and controlled atmosphere. Training for our personnel plays a pivotal role in enhancing public safety by ensuring swift and effective responses to emergencies, safeguarding lives, and preserving property within the community. We welcome the opportunity to facilitate training initiatives whenever a building is scheduled for demolition."

The training and demolition may cause disruptions to pedestrian and bicycle access near the Union Street Dam crossing and in Parking Lot J. Signage will be in place around the the training area.