The City of Raleigh announced on April 22 that a new Fire Station 3 will open at 936 Rock Quarry Road, replacing the old station located about 1.7 miles away on South East Street. The new facility, measuring 11,105 square feet and costing $11.5 million, is scheduled to begin operations on April 27 and will serve residents in Southeast Raleigh.
The opening of the modernized fire station matters for public safety and community development in Raleigh. It reflects ongoing efforts by the city to enhance emergency response capabilities while integrating technological advancements such as electric vehicle infrastructure.
Fire Chief Herbert Griffin said, “The opening of the new Raleigh Fire Station 3 represents not just a new building, but a strong, responsive force dedicated to protecting the lives and property of our community. This state-of-the-art facility will provide our firefighters with modernized technology and EV capacity.” The station features a private patient evaluation room, decontamination room for removing hazardous contaminants from gear and skin, an exercise area, living quarters for firefighters, and electric charging stations designed for both passenger vehicles and fire apparatus. Plans are underway for the department to acquire its first electric fire engine within several years.
The history of Fire Station 3 is significant due to its connection with Raleigh’s first volunteer black fire company known as the Victor Company. To honor this legacy, artist Maxwell Emcays created an outdoor public art installation featuring a lighted “history walk” that highlights milestones from local firefighting history. The project was developed in consultation with both the Raleigh Fire Department and Raleigh Fire Museum.
Community engagement played a role in planning; an open house was held at a nearby center in fall of 2024 where residents learned about relocation plans and reviewed designs for both the station and its public art components.
Raleigh’s commitment to quality community life extends beyond emergency services; it is also home to professional sports teams like the Stanley Cup-winning Carolina Hurricanes according to the official website. The city supports these initiatives through coordinated management by its city manager’s office as outlined online and leadership provided by an elected city council serving districts A through E according to official information. Recent changes such as updates to election terms have shaped local policy as reported by city sources.
A community open house at the new station is planned soon so residents can tour facilities and learn more about firefighting work.
