RAPID CITY, S.D. (KELO) — After more than a year of careful construction, Rapid City’s historic Fire Station 1 is almost ready to reopen its doors with major improvements designed for both firefighters and the community they serve.

Work on the downtown station began in February 2023, but crews had to keep operations running at the busiest firehouse in the department while adding new features and upgrades.

“All built around making sure that this department can remain functional, so that drove where we placed the addition,” said Head Architect Brad Burns.

One major new feature is an upgraded first aid room to help walk-in patients who come to the station for immediate assistance.

“We have a lot of walk-in patients, people that come in off the street, that just see a fire station and walk in the front door and need assistance. So what we built was basically a doctor’s office exam room — a room where we can take them so it’s private for them,” explained Fire Chief Jason Culberson.

The renovated station is designed with comfort and efficiency in mind, ensuring that firefighters and paramedics have a space that matches the department’s mission.

“Their sleeping quarters are on the second floor and fire poles aren’t used a lot anymore, but I think that’s maybe one of the favorite things for the firefighters — that they get a fire pole,” Burns said.

“One building for all of our admin folks and really giving a great place for our operations. Our paramedics and our firefighters, they are able to come back to a place that is comfortable, accessible, warm and still keeps up with our main mission and goal in mind,” Culberson added.

Fire Station 1 has looked almost the same for over half a century, but these updates are expected to extend the building’s life for another 50 years or more. The station’s new layout not only improves response times and working conditions but also provides a better environment for community members who need urgent care.

The renovation is set to wrap up by the end of the summer, with an open house planned for early September where the public will get a chance to tour the updated facility, meet the firefighters and learn about the department’s work.
When it opens, Fire Station 1 will also showcase modern safety features, new equipment storage solutions and energy-efficient upgrades to lower operating costs. City leaders hope the refreshed station will serve as a model for future public safety projects in Rapid City.

Residents are encouraged to attend the open house in September, which will feature family-friendly activities and fire safety demonstrations. The department also plans to hold educational tours for local schools, giving students a firsthand look at how their local firefighters train and work.

Originally reported by Tyler Louder in Kelo Land.