Douglas County broke ground Oct. 29 on a permanent home for its wildfire helicopter and Helitack crew. Commissioners had unanimously approved the $4.2 million construction contract on June 23, according to the county’s announcement.
The planned 10,000-square-foot building includes maintenance and storage space, offices and a landing pad measuring 120 by 88 feet. Completion is expected in 2027. The project is also the opening phase of an expanded regional public safety training center.
The county reported 394 Helitack missions since 2018, including responses to 142 wildfires. Housing the aircraft indoors is intended to protect that public investment from severe weather and support training with other emergency agencies.
