Fire Station 1 Improvements

Project Description

Fire Station 1, located at 198 D Street, has been a cherished part of our community since its original construction in 1938. It is set to undergo a seismic upgrade and interior renovation project to ensure it can better withstand and remain operational during and after a seismic event, like an earthquake, along with other interior and exterior improvements.

The project aims to extend the building's usable life while taking great care to maintain and respect its original Brainard Jones architectural character. We are currently working through our pre-construction checklist to prepare the site for the work to come.

During the construction, which is expected to start in Fall 2025 and last approximately 12 months, the fire station will temporarily relocate to 307 Petaluma Blvd South. All operations and services will continue uninterrupted, ensuring that the community receives the same level of protection and support. CLICK HERE to learn more about the temporary fire station project.

Planned Improvements

Interior Renovations: Interior renovations will include improving ADA accessibility to meet current codes, adding space for the decontamination of firefighter turnout gear, and creating gender-neutral restrooms and sleeping quarters. The kitchen, which dates back to the 1930s, will receive a much-needed remodel, and the exercise space will be upgraded and relocated from the apparatus bay to a safer location.

Exterior Improvements: The apparatus doors (large doors at the front of the building where the trucks come in) will be replaced to enhance functionality and better match the station's original 1930s character. Many of the original 1930’s windows will be saved and refurbished in place. Some of the single-pane units from the 1930s are beyond repair or need to be replaced with windows that allow for emergency exit. Those, and the ones from the 1970s, will be replaced with modern, energy-efficient windows that maintain the building's original character.

Nearly all components of historical significance, such as the fire pole and bell tower, will remain in their original form with minimal renovation. The two truck bays facing D Street that were added in the 1970’s will be transformed into a visual display for Petaluma’s 1937 American LaFrance Fire Engine. This engine was purchased and placed into service when the D Street Station was opened in 1938 and remained in service until 1960. When not driving in the annual Veterans Day or Butter and Eggs Day parades, the 1937 American LaFrance will be on display and be visible from D and 2nd Streets.

Additionally, an automatic fire sprinkler system will be installed, and asbestos and lead will be removed from the building.

First All-Electric City Facility: We are excited to announce that this renovation will transform Fire Station 1 into the first all-electric city facility, demonstrating our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship while continuing to serve our community.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

A recent Historic Resource Evaluation has confirmed the building's historic significance as the only project in Petaluma funded by the federal Public Works Administration (PWA), a New Deal program during the Great Depression, and as a fine example of Art Deco architecture by master architect Brainard Jones. In response to these findings, we are working closely with preservation specialists to ensure all renovations comply with the Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation of historic properties. We are committed to preserving this iconic structure and ensuring that it continues to serve our community for generations to come.