In September, the Huntington Fire Department, representatives from Shive-Hattery, city officials, students, community members, and Weigand Construction joined together to commemorate the groundbreaking of a new fire station set to replace its decades-old counterpart on Condit Street. Located on 1005 Flaxmill Road, Huntington locals listened as city leadership, project partners, and the fire chief set the vision for the improvements to come with the addition of the 17,750 square foot, modernized facility.
“Oftentimes, the best ideas we do as a community…are ideas we’ve been talking about for a long time, and I see our task as being the ones to bring it up and bring it to fruition and accomplish the job…Working with Chief Johnson, we’ve been able to build on the vision and the imagination that goes back decades in this community; to see a fire station on this land so that we can better provide coverage to the entirety of our community in light of the growth we’ve experienced over the last thirty years.” – Richard Strick, Mayor, City of Huntington, IN
Bricks and Mortar
Sitting on a three-acre plot of land purchased in 2008 for the very purpose of constructing a fire station, the dream is finally becoming a reality 17 years later. The new building will include:
- Air Filtration System
- Living Quarters
- Offices
- Shared Community Spaces
- Apparatus Bay
- Training Tower
Air filtration systems are a necessity in firehouses, minimizing first responders’ exposure to harmful chemicals present during fires. Specialized vents and hoses will pull compounds out of the air and allow vehicles and equipment to safely offgas, decreasing the risk of contamination. This, along with an expanded residence hall, administrative wing, and shared meeting space will better equip firefighters stationed there from day to day. Additionally, the central location provides quicker access to more of the city, improving response times and logistics.
Investing in First Responders
Beyond a state-of-the-art facility, this project also demonstrates the city’s commitment to both community safety and the men and women who dedicate their lives to the fire service.
“Today marks more than just the start of construction on a building. It marks the next chapter in a proud tradition of service, safety, and community. For generations, our firefighters have answered the call in the most difficult of moments. They have protected our homes, our businesses, and most importantly, our families. They have done this with courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering dedication to Huntington. This station is an investment in our community and firefighters who will live here.” – Tony Johnson, Chief, Huntington Fire Department
