Charlotte’s Firehouse 30 is undergoing a transformation as construction advances on the city’s first all-electric firehouse. Located at 3019 Beam Road, this state-of-the-art facility is poised to set a new standard for sustainability and emergency response capabilities in the region.
The $16.39 million project, part of the Charlotte Fire Department Facilities Master Plan, replaces a temporary structure originally built in 1955.
The existing firehouse at 4707 Belle-Oaks Drive near Charlotte Douglas International Airport has long been recognized as inadequate to meet the growing demands of the Beam Road and airport area.
Charlotte Fire Chief, Reginald Johnson said of the renovation: “This project represents our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and ensuring the safety of Charlotte’s residents and visitors.
“Firehouse 30 is more than just a facility; it’s a beacon of progress and preparedness for our community.
“Replacing the temporary structure with this innovative facility not only addresses current needs but also anticipates future demands
“This firehouse will serve as a model for other cities looking to invest in sustainable and effective emergency response infrastructure.”
The new design of Firehouse 30 combines modern innovation with the traditional aesthetic of a classic firehouse. Featuring a brick-and-bronze exterior, the building is designed to blend with Charlotte’s architectural landscape, whilst reflecting the pride and heritage of the fire service.
When completed, the new two-story, 14,000-square-foot facility will include three bays to house fire apparatus and provide adequate living quarters for firefighters.
The facility will also feature a modern catwalk for enhanced safety and operational efficiency, allowing firefighters easy access to equipment and storage areas. Designed with sustainability in mind, the building will be entirely electric, aligning with Charlotte’s broader environmental goals.
It will also host the Southeast’s first all-electric North American-style fire engine, solidifying Charlotte’s leadership in adopting green technologies.
The facility’s location, directly across from the Police and Fire Training Academy, is strategically chosen to optimize response times. Sitting on a three-acre site, the firehouse will enhance the Charlotte Fire Department’s ability to manage high call volumes in the surrounding areas, including those generated by the airport.
The project is currently in its construction phase, with significant progress being made toward its completion. The estimated completion date is December 2025.
Charlotte’s Firehouse 30 is undergoing a transformation to become the city’s first entirely electric firehouse. Reginald Johnson, Fire Chief for Charlotte called the project a beacon of hope and preparedness for the community.
