(TNS) - Behind a chain-linked fence along Fifth Avenue between C and D streets in San Rafael, workers using a crane hoisted a bundle of steel beams that would be integrated into the framework of what will soon be a new $36 million public safety building.

“Right now we are erecting steel beams and columns for the first and second floor,” said Jorge Meza, the project manager with Kitchel CEM of Sacramento who is overseeing work.

While on a recent tour of the construction zone across from City Hall, Meza said 20 to 25 workers are on site daily. Once the second floor is laid out, they will have a team working on each level simultaneously for a total of 50 to 75 workers, Meza said.

Construction of the new public-safety center began in October 2017 with the demolition of the 100-year-old San Rafael Station 51 at Fifth Avenue and C Street. San Rafael firefighters have been temporarily stationed across the street on the City Hall property while workers continue to build the new three-story complex along Fifth Avenue.

San Rafael fire Chief Chris Gray was happy to say, “It’s right on schedule and right on budget.”

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