City of Beacon Fire Department

The City of Beacon Fire Department, historically a volunteer-led organization operating from three stations dating back to the 19th century, faced increasing pressure to consolidate its operations into a modern, centralized facility. In 2006, Mitchell Associates Architects began collaborating with the city to explore options for merging the department’s three independent companies. It took 16 years and seven studies, (five conducted by Mitchell Associates) to finally achieve the city’s vision. The final solution included a transformative renovation and expansion of the centrally located Lewis Tompkins Hose Company Station. This design meets current operational demands and is prepared for future challenges by incorporating energy-efficient systems. The reimagined facility is visually appealing, functional, and environmentally responsible. 

The project encountered significant design, budgetary, and logistical hurdles. Initially, volunteer members insisted on maintaining separate community and workspaces for each company, delaying early efforts towards consolidation. As the volunteer base declined, and the reliance on career firefighters grew, the department’s needs significantly changed. The number of active volunteers fell from 80 in 2006 to just three by 2025, while the number of career staff increased from 13 to 18. This shift required a re-evaluation of the department’s spatial and operational priorities, including the development of a layout that could accommodate a fully career-based staffing model and support operations 24/7. 

The original 1970s station no longer aligned with the operational and safety needs of a modern fire department. The original building was located on a narrow side street, which provided limited space for emergency vehicles. This often forced vehicles into pedestrian pathways, creating a safety risk. The redesign positions the building toward a wider road that is better connected and introduces a deeper apron, facilitating safer staging. The orientation and central location significantly improve response efficiency and public safety. 

The new station is thoughtfully designed to prioritize firefighter health, safety, and operational efficiency, meeting all NFPA standards and incorporating clearly defined hot, warm, and cold zones to support contamination control. The facility includes a dedicated decontamination laundry and hot zone showers, and an acoustically isolated SCBA fill station to minimize noise exposure. The living and sleeping quarters are strategically located for quick access to the apparatus bay, helping to reduce both response times and sleep disruption. Training elements have been seamlessly integrated into the building’s layout. The former apparatus bay has been converted into a dedicated EMS response area with ample adjacent storage. Additional features include a fully equipped fitness room and ADA-compliant facilities. 

In addition to enhancing safety and operational performance, the station is designed to ensure long-term environmental and financial sustainability. The building operates entirely on electricity and utilizes geothermal ground-source heat pumps for efficient heating and cooling without relying on fossil fuels. It features high-performance insulation that exceeds code requirements and includes a heat recovery ventilation system to maintain indoor air quality while conserving energy. Together, these systems reduce the building’s carbon footprint, lower operating costs, and support the City of Beacon’s broader climate goals. 

In addition to enhancing performance and sustainability, the redesign addresses a long-standing visual disconnect. While the previous station served its purpose at the time, it clashed with the city’s historic character, particularly due to its prominent location across from City Hall. The renovation enhances the civic presence and achieves architectural harmony, creating an inviting gateway that honors Beacon’s rich heritage while embodying its vision for the future. 

After nearly two decades of planning, the new Lewis Tompkins Hose Company Station is a resilient, sustainable, and highly functional facility that enhances firefighter safety, accelerates emergency response, and demonstrates the City’s deep commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being.

*Photography credit: petesig Photography