A new project will convert a retired fire station in Thorold, Ont., into an energy efficient, climate-controlled cultural hub and museum that will house the town’s historical artifacts.

Once Fire Station 1 re-locates to a new modern facility, the vacant space will be re-deigned with an investment of more than $7.8 million from the federal and municipal government.

The hope is that the Thorold Historical Museum and Cultural Centre will become an important meeting place for the community and a catalyst for future investments into the downtown.

The design will increase comfort and usability, while honouring its past as a fire hall. Work  includes accessible improvements such as a new elevator and barrier-free modifications to meet the highest accessibility standards.

Major updates to the exterior of the building will improve insulation, prevent leaks, and enhance energy efficiency. A new HVAC system will support heating and cooling and also control humidity levels in the building to preserve the historic artifacts that will be on display.

“Fire stations house the protectors of our communities,” said Niagara Centre MP Vance Badawey. “It’s only fitting that the old walls of Fire Station 1 will continue to protect our community’s history and culture.

“Thorold is a dynamic and changing city and as it continues to make history, having the spaces and facilities to record and preserve our knowledge will ensure we can continue to learn and grow as a society.”