State awards City of Flagstaff $4M for regional wildland fire training facility

The state of Arizona has allocated $4M to the City of Flagstaff in its FY2026 budget for the construction of a regional wildland fire training facility. Local fire departments across northern Arizona are the front line of defense against wildfire and the construction of this facility will increase firefighter safety and improve wildfire response.

The construction of a permanent wildland fire training facility in Flagstaff will serve as the operational base for the Flagstaff Fire Department's Wildfire Management Division, providing year-round high-quality and scenario-based training opportunities for local and regional fire personnel. The facility will also enhance coordination among municipal, state, and federal firefighting agencies. The City of Flagstaff has dedicated $650K for the design of the facility and the $4M provided by the state will be used for construction.

City leadership would like to thank Governor Katie Hobbs and Senator Wendy Rogers for their enduring support in securing funding for this facility. The Flagstaff Fire Department would also like to thank partnering fire departments and fire districts for their support of this regional facility.

"Keeping Arizonans safe from wildfires is paramount to creating strong and vibrant communities," said Governor Katie Hobbs. "This investment will make sure northern Arizona has the highly trained personnel and resources they need to effectively respond to wildfires and protect both individuals and property. I will continue to make sure Arizona is equipped to handle the increasing threat of wildfires across the state."

Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett said "this wildland fire training facility is our next big step forward in how we prepare for and respond to the increasing threat of wildfires. I want to extend my gratitude to Governor Hobbs and Senator Rogers, as well as Coconino County, the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce, and Coconino Community College for their support and commitment to helping us build a safer, more resilient region."

Mark Gaillard, the Flagstaff Fire Chief, said "this investment from Governor Hobbs is a game-changer for wildfire preparedness in northern Arizona. It provides our firefighters with the resources and environment they need to train safely, effectively, and consistently."

For related questions, please contact Mark Wilson, City of Flagstaff Deputy Fire Chief at mwilson@flagstaffaz.gov

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