Bloomington Fire Department

A noon hour warehouse fire on Saturday forced the closure of the Center Street bridge in downtown Bloomington for a couple of hours. Firefighters said they contained the flames to the cupola of an elevator shaft.

According to a news joint release from the Bloomington police and fire departments and McLean County Coroner Kathy Yoder, the fire broke out at a home in the 700 block of East Market Street shortly before 5:30 p.m. Sunday.

Bloomington Fire Department brought back its requirement for applicants to hold a paramedic license and received grant money toward social service outreach positions. The department said it's too early to tell if adding a fourth shift is attracting more qualified applicants.

Bloomington Fire Capt. Frank Friend wants the department to increase its offerings of social services after emergencies, while continuing fire prevention efforts in the community.

Firefighters noted severe hoarding conditions and the absence of smoke alarms inside, according to Bloomington Fire Captain Frank Friend.

A blaze caused by an unattended cooking fire has left 20 Bloomington residents displaced, authorities say.

Bloomington Police have joined an investigation into what led to a house fire where two people were found dead Wednesday morning.

Bloomington Fire Chief Cory Matheny says the department has seen a more than 30% increase in fire and ambulance calls in the last five years, without any additional staffing. He says that has caused a strain.

All revenue generated by the City of Bloomington’s local grocery tax that goes into effect next year will be used to pay for infrastructure improvements.

In a memo to the council, city staff says Bloomington will still lack sufficient shelter capacity this winter even with the addition of the shelter village that's under construction near Home Sweet Home Ministries. That’s expected to open in December.