Chicago Construction News staff writer
Northbrook marked a major investment in public safety this week as village officials, firefighters, paramedics and project partners gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Fire Station 11 at 820 Dundee Road.
The state-of-the-art facility will replace the existing Fire Station 11, originally built in 1971, which officials say has reached the end of its useful life. The current station, now 53 years old, along with the Fleet Maintenance Garage, built 68 years ago, faces ongoing structural and operational challenges, including limited space, outdated infrastructure and inadequate accommodations for firefighters and paramedics working around-the-clock shifts.
“This new ground-up facility will be fully electric and energy-efficient, featuring four one-way apparatus bays with four-fold doors, a decontamination room, hose tower, storm shelter, expansive storage mezzanine, turnout gear rooms, and additional operational support spaces.
Designed by FGM Architects and built in partnership with Leopardo Construction, the new Fire Station 11 is being planned to meet the evolving needs of modern emergency response operations while prioritizing firefighter wellness, operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Village leaders said the new station will provide a modern, efficient and flexible layout to support 24/7/365 operations. Designed with safety, efficiency and sustainability in mind, the facility will support first responders with updated equipment, improved workflows and enhanced living and wellness spaces for firefighters and paramedics working long shifts.
The project also reflects the Village’s commitment to sustainability and climate resiliency. Plans for the station include geothermal heating and cooling systems, as well as the capability for future solar power installation, aligning the project with the Village’s Climate Action Plan.
The estimated total cost of the project, including land acquisition, is approximately $22 million.
Officials described the groundbreaking as a significant milestone for Northbrook public safety, ensuring emergency personnel have the resources and modern infrastructure needed to continue serving the community for decades to come.
