Westfield Breaks Ground for New Fire Station HQ
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The Westfield Fire Department has broken ground on its new $12.8 million fire station and headquarters. The department says Station 81 will replace its current fire station and headquarters at Westfield’s Public Safety Building.
The 36,000-square-foot facility, which is located at the southeast corner of 171st street and Ditch Road, features eight bays, a training tower, fitness facilities, living quarters, fleet services and administrative offices.
“We started this process in 2019 to relocate the headquarters,” said Westfield Fire Chief Rob Gaylor. “Our current Public Safety Building opened in 1997 and the Fire and Police Departments have outgrown that facility. We are out of space with people using closets for offices. It’s also in need of significant repairs.”
The Westfield Public Safety Building is also home to the Westfield Police Department, as well as personnel and equipment for Station 81. The city operates three fire stations. Station 83, the most recent, opened in 2012.
“Westfield’s population continues to grow and so do demands for fire and EMS services,” said Mayor Andy Cook. “The need for a new Police Department is also great. As our city grows, we are adding additional officers and the current headquarters is no longer suitable for the Police Department’s needs,” said Mayor Cook.
Station 81 is expected to open next year.