Washougal Needs a New Fire Station 43

It’s the City’s job to provide and maintain emergency services and law enforcement.

This requires adequate, functional buildings and equipment. However, the Fire Station 43 building has reached the end of its useful life.  

City Council will meet at important project milestones throughout the project to guide project progress. Find meeting dates and agendas at www.cityofwashougal.us/129/2239/Agendas-Minutes

Why does Washougal need a new Fire Station 43?

Washougal needs a new station to ensure our residents continue to receive adequate fire and emergency medical services as we continue to grow. The current Fire Station 43 facility has outlived its useful life and cannot be modified to accommodate the needs required of a modern fire station. Replacement is necessary since the current station deficiencies cannot be addressed through remodeling or retrofitting. More specifically, the current building:

• Frequently floods with stormwater, so firefighters use sandbags year-round to block some of it. Structural damage has occurred from flooding over the years.
• Intermittently has sewage backups.
• Doesn’t have a dedicated space for decontaminating clothing and gear after responding to a fire — which risks firefighters’ health and safety due to carcinogen exposure.
• Lacks an exhaust system for fire engines to maintain healthy air quality.
• Would not withstand a significant earthquake.
• Lacks space for additional firefighters/EMS personnel to meet growing demands.
• Lacks mandated safety clearances around equipment.
• Lacks facilities for a diverse workforce (male/female changing rooms) to be consistent with diversity, equity and inclusion guidelines.
• Lacks private medical screening and treatment area for walk-ins and drive-ins.

The building also doesn’t meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards for public access and lacks a public restroom.