City of New Brunswick Announces Plans for New Fire Department Headquarters

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (August 13, 2025) - The City of New Brunswick is moving forward with plans to construct a brand-new Fire Headquarters, designed to meet the needs of today's fire service and the community it protects.

The project will deliver a modern, state-of-the-art facility built specifically to support the critical work of New Brunswick's firefighters, incorporating advanced safety measures, training capabilities, and operational efficiencies that reflect the demands of a 21st-century emergency response operation.

"Our firefighters work every day to protect lives and property, and they deserve a facility that matches the essential nature of that mission," said Mayor Jim Cahill. "This new headquarters will be a lasting investment in their safety, efficiency, and ability to serve our residents for generations to come."

The City has engaged MW Studios, a nationally recognized architectural firm specializing in public safety facilities, to lead the design process. Working closely with Fire Department leadership, public safety professionals and City officials, MW Studios is developing a headquarters that will incorporate all existing functions of the current facility, along with expanded programming for firefighter safety, training, administration, and modern apparatus housing.

To ensure continuity of service, the City intends to build the new headquarters in close proximity to its current location. This will preserve New Brunswick's balanced fire coverage and minimize any change in response times. Fire Department operations will remain fully active throughout construction, with other City firehouses also receiving significant upgrades to maintain operational excellence.

"This new headquarters is more than just a building, it's a commitment to the safety of our firefighters and the residents we protect," said Fire Director Chris Stellatella. "By creating a purpose-built space for modern fire service, we're ensuring our team has the tools, resources, and training environment necessary to respond effectively to any emergency."

Once construction begins, the project is expected to take up to three years to complete. The City will bond for the necessary funding while actively pursuing grants to help offset costs.

The new Fire Headquarters will serve as the operational hub for New Brunswick's three-station fire system, supporting Engine 5 on Bartlett Street and Engine 2 on Burnet Street. It will be designed to be both resilient and adaptable, ensuring it can meet evolving public safety needs for decades to come.

"As we move through the design and planning phases, we will continue to keep our community informed," Mayor Cahill added. "Our firefighters stand ready every day for us. Now, it's our turn to stand ready for them."