After more than 60 years of service, the original Fire Station 16 in San Carlos has been replaced with a state-of-the-art facility at 1280 Alameda de las Pulgas, marking a major milestone in the city’s commitment to safety and sustainability. As per safety standards, fire stations should be updated, remodeled, or rebuilt every 30 to 40 years, making this project long overdue.
Last month, Mayor John Dugan and Fire Chief David Pucci, spoke at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, reflecting on the station’s outdated design, including its low door openings that required custom fire engines. A lifelong resident of San Carlos, Sandra Frojelin, recalled visiting the old station with her children years ago: “It definitely had the 50s/60s style to it, with lots of wood paneling, Formica counters, electric coil stove, and tiny sleeping quarters that didn’t offer privacy.”
The Old Fire Station 16, photo from the City of San Carlos Facebook page
The New Fire Station 16
Previous limitations are now a distant memory, with the new station featuring floor-to-ceiling glass doors, rear-entry access. The revamped two-story fire station seamlessly blends modern functionality with firefighter comfort. Inside, visitors were impressed by the spacious engine room, 2-person private dorm-style bedrooms, and spacious all-gender bathrooms/ showers. Recreation areas, including a lounge with recliners, a large TV, and a fully equipped gym, ensure first responders have a place to recharge during their long shifts.
The sleek, modern kitchen and handcrafted wooden dining table adorned with the San Carlos/Redwood City Fire Department emblem further highlight the station’s balance of utility and pride. Solar panels, an important addition to the facility, provide renewable energy to power daily operations, reflecting San Carlos’s focus on sustainability alongside safety.
Fire station 16 Table, photo by Sandy Frojelin
First responders often spend 48 to 96 hours at the station, making organization and comfort essential for quick response times and overall well-being. The upgraded station not only supports the firefighters but also enhances public safety, while its green features set a precedent for environmentally responsible municipal buildings. The public tour led by firefighters from Stations 16 and 13 during the ribbon-cutting ceremony allowed attendees to see these features firsthand and appreciate the meticulous planning behind the project.
As the city prepares for the station’s official move-in before the New Year, Fire Station 16 stands as a shining example of progress, community spirit, and environmental stewardship. Sandra Frojelin summed it up best: “It is heartwarming to see our firefighters get a station to work out of that is inviting, welcoming, and modernized.” For San Carlos, this is more than a new building—it’s a step forward in supporting its first responders.
Resources
- Sandy Frojelin, Resident of San Carlos
- City of San Carlos Email Newsletter
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