Green Roof Installed on Saint Paul Fire Station

A green roof is being installed on the garage of St. Paul's newest fire station, located at W. 7th Street and Randolph Avenue. Installation of plants continues Friday and next week.

The city is seeking Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for the new building. St. Paul Fire Marshal Steve Zaccard said the green space also will help open the building to Saint Paul community members. The space eventually will be open for public tours and use, which will likely require an appointment through the fire department.  It could possibly even host weddings. The roof will have a gas connection and a sound system.

The 8,000-square-foot green roof is located two stories from ground level, and the soil depth ranges from 4 to 15 inches deep. The flora includes vines that will climb steel structures to look like trees, native perennials, grass, and succulents. There is also a small pond, and space for firefighters to plant a vegetable garden. When it is completed, it will host more than 9,000 plants.

The entire project cost about $500,000. Yearly maintenance will cost about $1,500 to $2,000.