An extensive renovation of Fire Station 98 is planned which includes an overhaul of the fire station’s kitchen and bathroom facilities, among other critical upgrades.
Fire Chief Roberto Lorenzo outlined the scope of the renovation work, which includes the modernization of the station’s kitchen, the installation of three unisex shower rooms, and the upgrade of existing bathroom facilities to meet current standards of functionality, health, safety, and accessibility. The project will introduce structural enhancements such as the installation of two exterior impact doors and an exterior perimeter camera system to bolster the station’s security and resilience against extreme weather conditions.
Funded through the city’s Fire Impact Fees, the renovation is part of a broader initiative to ensure new developments contribute their fair share towards capital expenditures necessary for fire protection. The fees collected are earmarked for capital improvements to fire station facilities and equipment purchases.
Margate Fire Department, an ISO Class 1 Department, provides fire and emergency medical services to over 58,000 residents across nine square miles. With firefighter paramedics responding to approximately 9,500 – 9,700 calls for service annually from three fire stations, the renovation of Station 98 is an important step in supporting the department’s ongoing efforts to meet the community’s needs effectively.
The decision to renovate follows a detailed architectural and structural review conducted by Lunz Prebor Fowler Architects ten years ago, which identified key improvement areas across the city’s fire stations. For Station 98, built in 1997 and encompassing 9,452 square feet with three bays for fire apparatus, the lack of separate men/women bathrooms and showers was a concern. The planned renovation addresses these and other issues, ensuring the facilities meet and exceed the evolving expectations for firefighter facilities.
The renovation project will also see the kitchen facilities updated to enhance staff comfort and comply with health and safety standards. The inclusion of energy-efficient appliances and durable surfaces aims to provide a functional and sustainable environment for fire service personnel.