Officials in Avondale marked a significant moment with the grand opening of the new Fire Station 171 located in Old Town. The ceremony, held on Nov. 3, introduced a state-of-the-art facility at 519 E. Western Avenue, which promises updated safety and service features for the area's first responders. According to the City of Avondale press release, Fire Chief Larry Rooney celebrated the moment, noting that the 16,277-square-foot building was designed to meet the community's needs while also focusing on fire fighter health and safety.
The previous Fire Station 171, which had been serving since 1985, was replaced after showing signs of substantial wear after nearly four decades in operation. The new station, costing $15.8 million, boasts four apparatus bays, ten dorm rooms, and areas for community engagement. With direct access to 6th Street, these features are thoughtfully integrated to reflect both the heritage and architectural style of Old Town Avondale. Chief Rooney highlighted this addition by stating, "Not only does this new facility honor that legacy, it also provides our firefighters with the modern tools and design features they need to safely and effectively protect our community for decades to come."
The construction project, managed by Willmeng with LEA Architects handling the design, had started back in November 2024. With a clear nod to the past, the fire station mirrors the neighborhood's aesthetic, including elements such as public art and shaded outdoor spaces tailored for pedestrians. Set to be operational from November 12, the station exemplifies the city's commitment to blending functionality with community-oriented architecture.
According to a City of Avondale press release, the doors of Fire Station 171 will be open to the public on Nov. 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., for a family-friendly event. Assistant Fire Chief Justin Ernst, in details provided for the press, underscored the significance of the open house: "This open house is our way of welcoming the community into their new fire station." Amidst the attractions, such as fire trucks and equipment, there will also be food, giveaways, and prizes, further binding the fire service to those it serves.
