The City of St. George is inviting the community to celebrate the grand opening of the new downtown Fire Station 1, located at 85 S. Flood Street (400 East). The celebration takes place Thursday, Nov. 7, from 5 to 7 PM, featuring brief remarks, a ceremonial fire hose cutting, and a traditional push-in ceremony marking the station’s official debut.
“We are pleased to relocate Station 1 to a new site—in the heart of downtown St. George—to accommodate the needs of our growing city,” said Mayor Michele Randall. “We had outgrown our previous Station 1 near Utah Tech University, and increased traffic congestion over the years presented a challenge. This upgrade positions our fire department well for the future.”
The new 23,600-square-foot facility is nearly three times the size of the previous Station 1. It includes four apparatus bays, administrative offices, living quarters for firefighters, a community and training room, a day room and kitchen, a fitness center, and private restrooms. The $9 million project was funded through impact fees and the City’s capital projects fund.
Fire Chief Robert Stoker said the new headquarters was designed to enhance functionality, improve response times, and provide a safe, modern working environment. “I think not only our firefighters will appreciate this new facility, but our residents can appreciate the measures being taken to protect them,” Stoker said. “Thanks to the St. George City Council for their support in making this happen.”
Inside the new station, visitors will find a tribute to the department’s early history, including a large photo of the original 1936 volunteer team and the department’s first fire engine—a 1936 Studebaker, still owned by the department and displayed in the lobby.
“Whenever possible we like to honor our past while looking to the future,” added Randall. “Station 1 is built on the site of the old Flood Street Chapel, which dated back to 1955. We have original bricks from that building on display to commemorate what had been a significant gathering spot for the community for many years.”
The St. George Fire Department now operates nine stations throughout the city, responding to fire emergencies, EMS calls, hazardous materials incidents, technical rescues, and vehicle extractions, and providing mutual aid to neighboring communities.
For more information, visit the city website.
