This facility received the Career 1 Notable award in the 2025 Firehouse Station Design Awards. Find the full list of winners here. 

Station No. 4 reflects the department’s continued investment in modern facilities that prioritize firefighter safety, efficient emergency response and connection to the community. The city strategically acquired and cleared seven residential properties that were adjacent to the original Station No. 4. Although initial concepts considered demolishing the existing station, city leaders chose to preserve the structure for potential future use, which minimized disruption during construction and maintained flexibility for redevelopment.

The resulting four-bay facility is built to accommodate a typical on-duty crew of eight, with sleeping quarters for each individual and an overall capacity of 32 personnel. The station’s layout is designed for speed and efficiency, with short travel paths between living areas and the apparatus bays. The watch office offers direct visibility to the front apron, to ensure situational awareness and swift mobilization, which the Station Design Awards judges noted as an important positive facet of the facility. These design choices support reduced turnaround times and seamless day-to-day operations.

Health, wellness and safety were central to the project’s programmatic goals. The station includes a dedicated decontamination zone that follows current best practices in zoning and contamination control, separating Hot, Warm and Cold Zones. A private mother’s room provides space for nursing and personal care, underscoring the department’s commitment to inclusivity and mental wellness.

The facility houses a satellite police office, to offer local law enforcement a reliable touchpoint in the community without the need to return to headquarters. This shared-use model enhances interagency coordination and extends the city’s public safety presence.

Sustainability and responsible stewardship of public funds were key design drivers. The station features rooftop solar panels that contribute to renewable energy production, reduce utility costs and reflect the city’s climate-conscious values. Durable, energy-efficient building materials, including structural steel framing, brick and cast stone exteriors, and interior concrete masonry, ensure long-term resilience with minimal maintenance.

The project faced several unexpected hurdles, including the relocation of existing electrical service lines and an alleyway easement that affected site access. The design team worked closely with utility providers and city departments to resolve these issues early in the construction phase, to avoid costly delays and preserve the overall timeline.

Throughout the project, the architectural firm employed its Master Builder approach to provide both design and construction management services, to maintain continuity from concept through completion.

Architect: Wendel