Fire Station #1: Built for Service, Ready for the Future

PARTNERS in Architecture, in collaboration with Fire Chief Corey Nicholson & department staff, designed the City of Port Huron’s new Fire Station No. 1. This six-bay, single-deep, drive-through station replaced the department’s Central Fire Station that was originally constructed in 1960. The new 20,200-square-foot facility is strategically located in a densely populated, high-call volume neighborhood in order to improve response times and public safety. It was built to honor the legacy of the fire service while preparing for the future.

The exterior brick façade features deep green and classic orange tones that was inspired by the iconic stadium colors of Wrigley Field in Chicago and Fenway Park in Boston, nodding to timeless American traditions. Inside, the station is purpose-built with firefighter health and wellness in mind. PARTNERS thoughtfully designed the decontamination rooms to allow personnel to quickly transition from soiled gear into clean attire, minimizing carcinogen exposure. There are eight individual bunk rooms and a dedicated battalion chief room to provide comfortable accommodations, along with a large day room, kitchen, fitness center with outdoor access, and a training room that support ongoing preparation and readiness.

The station also includes a dual-purpose hose-drying and training tower, SCBA cleaning stations, and separate offices for command staff and training personnel. The apparatus bays accommodate a full range of fire and rescue vehicles, including two engines, hazmat/technical rescue unit, battalion chief vehicle, and a rescue boat. The design prioritizes clean zoning, durability, and efficient circulation.