At the heart of the new Fire Station #1, “Blue Shift” firefighters find a moment of comfort and laughter as they gather around a large table for dinner. Amidst a day filled with calls — a car accident, a backyard fire, and a rescue involving a child — this hearty meal offers a needed pause. As they share stories over hot meals, the station feels less like a building and more like a home. It’s a place where fire department personnel can recharge before responding to the next emergency call.
“This new fire station is built from the ground up with the needs of modern firefighting in mind,” said Kevin Self, Newcastle city manager, and former fire chief. “Anyone who has walked in the boots of a firefighter understands the demands of the job including the importance of a facility that provides 24/7 operational support.”
A sense of home and dedication is what the City of Newcastle wishes to share with the public at the grand opening of the new Fire Station #1 at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 10, at 555 South Main Street. As Newcastle has transformed from a small town of 1,200 residents into a growing city of approximately 14,000, the limitations of the original 1967 fire station became increasingly apparent. Despite the addition of a staffed Station #2 in 2008, it was evident that a new primary firehouse was essential to meet the growing need.
The celebration will begin with the bagpipe melodies of Oklahoma Fire Pipes and Drums, adding a sense of solemnity and dignity to the event. The event will include a traditional fire engine push-in ceremony, a symbolic act to officially set the new station in motion. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the station, meet those who serve our community in the fire service, and see firsthand the equipment and facilities that enable them to perform their duties effectively.
Mayor Karl Nail said, “The opening of Fire Station #1 is a pivotal moment for our City. The station was designed and constructed to be a generational facility. It underscores our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all Newcastle residents.”
Features of the new Fire Station #1 include:
• An expansive 18,970 square-foot space equipped with a modern drive-thru bay.
• A specialized room for gear decontamination and safety.
• Comfortable living quarters with individual sleeping and bathing facilities, a kitchen, a dayroom, and a fitness room, designed to support the firefighters’ well-being.
• This project was designed by Guernsey and constructed by Lingo Construction, reflecting traditional Oklahoma architecture with modern functionality.
• A fully-equipped training room with audio/visual and tools to provide in-person and remote training as needed.
“The new Fire Station #1 symbolizes our city’s growth and proactive approach to essential services,” Mayor Nail said.
“This facility will be instrumental in enhancing our response capabilities and fostering closer community ties.”
The City of Newcastle administration and employees said they look forward to welcoming residents to what they believe is a landmark event for Newcastle — celebrating a new era in public safety and community support.
