Friendly Fire
Transforming Rural Fire Stations into Community Resilience Hubs
Modernizing aging volunteer fire stations to meet current safety standards while creating multipurpose spaces that serve entire communities. Building safer, more resilient rural America.
The Challenge
Outdated Facilities
Rural fire stations built decades ago no longer meet modern safety standards, with structural issues, inadequate ventilation, and insufficient space for modern equipment.
Limited Resources
Small volunteer departments lack the administrative capacity to navigate complex federal and state funding programs, despite millions in available grants.
Community Needs
Rural communities need multipurpose spaces for emergency sheltering, training, and public meetings, but current facilities cannot safely accommodate these uses.
Our Solution
Community Safety & Resilience Hubs
We transform aging fire stations into comprehensive facilities that serve multiple functions while preserving the proud tradition of volunteer firefighting. Our approach combines:
- NFPA-compliant safety systems and modern equipment storage
- Multipurpose community spaces for emergency management
- Training facilities for first responders and community members
- Scalable design principles adaptable across rural America
Pilot Project: Ticonderoga, NY
Current Situation
The Ticonderoga Fire Department operates from a 1976 converted grocery store with ongoing mold remediation, structural concerns, and apparatus bays too small for modern fire engines.
Proposed Transformation
Comprehensive renovation including hazard abatement, structural rehabilitation, expanded apparatus bays, and a new multipurpose community hall for emergency management and civic functions.
Ready to Build Community Resilience?
Learn how the Friendly Fire model can help modernize your rural fire station and create a stronger, more resilient community.