NEW GLOUCESTER – The centralized Fire and Rescue Station opened earlier this month on Route 100 after more than two decades of planning and then construction.

The fleet of engines, pumpers, rescue unit and trucks are there, along with space for offices and staff to train.

Fire Chief Gary Sacco said construction cost was held under a $2.3 million cap. Leftover funds will be returned to the town.

Sacco said the department can now do maintenance on the pumps in-house because of the larger space saving the town costs associated with doing that work elsewhere.

Eight of the 10 spaces in the building are occupied by equipment. A training room accommodates the department’s 40 members. Eight bunks are available for staff to overnight, if needed.

An open house is planned in May.