Seattle officials, including Mayor Bruce Harrell and Fire Chief Harold Scoggins, joined forces with the Seattle Fire Department (SFD), the Department of Finance and Administrative Services (FAS), and community leaders on February 5 to initiate construction of the new Fire Station 31 in North Seattle.
This event marks a significant step in bolstering public safety infrastructure in the rapidly growing area.
The construction of the new 22,000 square foot facility at 11302 Meridian Ave. N. is expected to begin this month, with completion anticipated in late 2025.
The station will feature a modern three-story building equipped with four apparatus bays to house a fire engine, ladder truck, medic unit, aid unit, and space for a Health One unit.
This unit is particularly designed to offer immediate assistance to individuals in need, providing a range of services from medical care to social support.
Mayor Bruce Harrell highlighted the importance of the new station in the context of the city’s broader public safety strategy, which includes significant investments in firefighter staffing, overdose response capabilities, and emergency medical services.
“The new Fire Station 31 will provide North Seattle communities with a state-of-the-art facility that meets operational needs, supports the health and wellbeing of our firefighters and first responders, and ensures this growing part of our city has the reliable fire and emergency medical services it deserves for decades to come,” said Mayor Harrell.
The decision to construct a new station follows the city’s determination that the former Fire Station 31 no longer met the SFD’s operational needs.
An extensive search led by FAS, incorporating community input and various criteria, resulted in the selection of the new site, which was previously vacant.
Fire Chief Harold Scoggins emphasized the critical role of Fire Station 31 in responding to the area’s high demand for fire suppression and emergency medical services.
“Breaking ground on the new site for Fire Station 31 means we are one step closer to moving these members into their new quarters,” said Scoggins.
The project also aims to improve the neighborhood’s streetscape, with plans for regrading and repaving the street, adding a new curb, planting strip, street trees, and sidewalks.
The station will accommodate up to 13 active firefighters per shift and three Health One personnel, featuring a training/classroom space for SFD training and community engagement.
A permanent public art installation by local artist Damon Brown will adorn the station, further enriching the community’s aesthetic.
Community leaders expressed their enthusiasm for the project.
Council member Cathy Moore of District 5 (North Seattle) stated: “I am ecstatic to help break ground on Fire Station 31.
Upon its grand opening in 2025, I foresee this station, especially the Health One Unit, will help meet the needs of the growing population in and around Northgate.”
Council member Bob Kettle, Chair of the Public Safety Committee, and Kenny Stuart, President of the Seattle Fire Fighters Union, IAFF Local 27, also shared their support, emphasizing the project’s importance for firefighter safety and community well-being.
The groundbreaking of Fire Station 31 in North Seattle marks a pivotal moment in enhancing the city’s public safety and emergency response infrastructure.
By addressing the operational needs of the Seattle Fire Department and offering state-of-the-art facilities for firefighters and first responders, this project not only promises to improve service delivery in one of the city’s fastest-growing areas but also exemplifies the city’s commitment to fostering safe, thriving neighborhoods.
The inclusion of the Health One unit within the new station underscores a holistic approach to public safety, prioritizing immediate and comprehensive care for individuals in crisis.
This development reflects a collaborative effort between city officials, community leaders, and public safety professionals, highlighting the importance of strategic investment and community input in shaping the future of urban safety and well-being.
