New fire codes will be used in rebuilding Edmond apartments

The apartment complex, southwest of Covell Road and Kelly Avenue, was destroyed by fire in October 2009, just two weeks before the luxury apartments were to be completed.

Firefighters said the fire, which lasted several days, was the largest fire in the history of Edmond. Damage was estimated at $10 million.

Edmond planning commissioners this week approved a site plan by SC Bodner Co. Inc., of Indianapolis, to rebuild the apartments.

Former Mayor Dan O'Neil told commissioners that he fears for the health and safety of residents there.

The building will be four stories tall, with all 141 apartments in one building where 300 to 400 people will live, O'Neil said.

He said he is concerned about previous violations and building on top of the old foundation.

At the time of the fire, city staff members said there were at least 18 failed inspections during construction. They said that was not surprising because of the size of the building.

“We have met all of the standards for fire safety,” said Mike Klein, Bodner's director of development.

City Planner Bob Schiermeyer said staff members and fire officials are satisfied with the design; they said it meets all zoning regulations.

The entire foundation will be removed, and the fire lanes will be rebuilt to city code, he said.

Planning Commissioner Mark Hoose said fire marshals will be assigned to the project throughout the inspection process.

“The project is being built in a different way to comply with new fire codes,” Hoose said.