The existing Glendale Fire Station 151 was built more than 40 years ago and, despite several renovations, it no longer meets the needs required for the area. DWL designed the new 14,000 s.f. facility to contain four apparatus bays, a training classroom, living quarters for 10 department personnel, a kitchen and a fully-equipped fitness facility. It also includes an area for the future Battalion Chief’s quarters.

Because the property is adjacent to the historic Sugar Beet Factory—Arizona’s first structural steel building—and is in the vicinity of Downtown Glendale, the brick detailing chosen for the exterior wall material pays tribute to the history of the site. Exposing structural steel elements of iron color metal panels embrace the Sugar Beet Factory’s intricate design.

Although the building is set back from Glendale Avenue, the Fire Department wanted to provide peace of mind to nearby residents by making their presence more conspicuous. To achieve this goal, DWL integrated a bell tower, which will house old Fire Station 151’s historic alarm bell, into the new
station’s design.