Oregon Fire Station Expansion Surges Ahead with $4.1M Project

UPDATE: Construction on the $4.1 million expansion of Oregon’s fire station is progressing rapidly and remains on schedule, according to Oregon Fire Chief Michael Knoup. Last week, crews began pouring concrete to lay the foundation for a significant addition that will double the facility’s size, crucial for enhancing emergency response capabilities.

As of now, the existing station at 100 Washington St. is undergoing a transformation that will better accommodate modern emergency vehicles and provide improved living quarters for firefighters and paramedics. “We are right on target,” Knoup affirmed, signaling the urgency of this project for the community.

In a January 21 meeting, the Oregon City Council unanimously approved a zoning variance necessary for the expansion, despite earlier recommendations against it. This decision came after a packed chamber of about 100 residents voiced their support for the vital upgrades. The council’s approval was a pivotal moment, allowing the fire district to move forward with plans that are critical for public safety.

The fire station, originally built in 1985, is being enhanced to address significant increases in emergency calls—from 400 in 1985 to 1,200 last year, with 80% of those being ambulance requests. “The citizens of Oregon and its tourists are our priority,” Knoup emphasized during the council meeting, highlighting the urgency of the expansion.

The project is set to unfold in three phases over the next 14-16 months, with steel supports expected to rise within weeks. The building shell is projected to be completed by the end of October. This strategic expansion will consolidate all fire apparatus under one roof, enhancing operational efficiency and potentially saving lives by reducing response times.

Funding for the renovation is secured through existing capital funds, bonds, and grants, with no increase to the district’s property tax levy. Fire district trustees deemed relocating the station too expensive, estimating a new build would cost between $8 million and $10 million.

Knoup noted the importance of having a solid foundation for the new addition, as the area was previously filled with old concrete from a former lumber yard. “We want to ensure we have a solid base to work with,” he stated, reinforcing the project’s integrity.

As construction progresses, the fire department continues to focus on its mission. In 2024, firefighters successfully rescued 26 people from the river, underscoring the critical role of the fire station in community safety.

As the expansion project advances, residents and officials alike are optimistic about the future of emergency services in Oregon. Knoup expressed gratitude for public support, stating, “We are looking forward to serving our community better with these improvements.”

Stay tuned for updates as this critical infrastructure project unfolds, ensuring the safety and efficiency of emergency services in Oregon.