Avondale Celebrates Opening of New Fire Station in Old Town; Public Open House Planned for Nov. 22

The City of Avondale held a ceremony on Nov. 3, marking the completion of the newly constructed Avondale Fire Station 171, located at 519 E. Western Avenue, in the heart of Old Town Avondale.

The new 16,277-square-foot station represents a significant investment in firefighter health, safety and operational readiness, ensuring the department continues to meet the growing needs of the Avondale community. The new facility replaces the original Fire Station 171, which was built in 1985. After nearly four decades of service, the former building had reached the end of its useful life.

“Fire Station 171 has been a cornerstone of service in Avondale for generations,” said Avondale Fire Chief Larry Rooney. “Not only does this new facility honor that legacy, it also provides our firefighters with the modern tools and design features they need to safely and effectively protect our community for decades to come.”

The new station features four apparatus bays with direct access onto 6th Street, ten dorm rooms, a community lobby, as well as the latest in firefighter health and safety design standards. Its architecture reflects the character of Old Town Avondale, incorporating public art, shaded outdoor spaces, and pedestrian-friendly design elements that blend seamlessly with the surrounding neighborhood.

Construction on the $15.8 million project began in November 2024, with Willmeng serving as the contractor and LEA Architects as the project architect. The new fire station is scheduled to go into service on November 12, 2025.

Residents are invited to tour the new station during a public open house on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fire Station 171, 519 E. Western Ave. The free, family-friendly event will include guided tours of the new facility, opportunities to meet local firefighters, fire safety demonstrations, fire trucks and equipment displays, as well as food, giveaways, and prizes.

“This open house is our way of welcoming the community into their new fire station,” Chief Rooney said. “We want residents to see firsthand how this facility supports our mission to serve, protect and engage with our community.”

Media Contact:
Members of the media who are interested in arranging a private tour of the new facility, led by Avondale Fire & Medical staff, are invited to contact:

Assistant Fire Chief Justin Ernst
Avondale Fire & Medical Public Information Office
Email: jernst@avondaleaz.gov
Phone: (623) 333-6102