Sugar Grove fire district hopes for $2 million in federal funding for training center

Plans to build a regional fire training facility in Sugar Grove could get a significant boost through a funding request made by U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood.

The Naperville Democrat is seeking $2 million in federal funding to help the Sugar Grove Fire Protection District construct the training center facility that would serve current first responders as well as students from h Waubonsee Community College’s Fire Science Technology Program.

The proposal, part of Underwood’s Community Project Funding requests in the 14th District, is one of two that could impact the Kane County area. She’s also asked for $1.2 million to help explore how to extend a Metra commuter rail line from Elburn to DeKalb.

In total, Underwood has requested more than $30 million go to 20 projects in her district.

The proposed training facility would have classrooms and specialized training areas to learn about auto extrication, aircraft rescue, water and ice rescue procedures, diver training, secure equipment storage and more.

In a public announcement last year, the Sugar Grove Fire Protection District said the facility would be built at 1660 Denny Road. The site also could be the home to a second fire station in the future, pending the growing needs of the department.

The 14th District includes portions of DeKalb, Kane, Will and La Salle counties.