A Safer Future: Progress Update on Sanford Fire & EMS Headquarters

On June 4, 2025, City staff spent the day with WBRC Engineering and Mitchell Associates Architects to finalize the remaining elements of the design development for the Sanford Fire & EMS Headquarters.

The station has been thoughtfully designed to prioritize essential needs, with a focus on cost effectiveness and the efficient use of resources. The headquarters will include five drive through bays and key safety features, such as exhaust systems and decontamination areas, to help ensure firefighter health and safety. It will also feature a communications center, training area, gear and equipment storage, and modern equitable living quarters designed to support all firefighters and EMS personnel.

The site plan has been approved by the Sanford Planning Board, and the State Historic Preservation Commission has also given its approval. The final permit under review is the Site Location of Development Act (SLODA) permit from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.

The project is currently undergoing final engineering cost assessments in preparation for the development of bid documents. The construction bid is expected to be finalized in November 2025, with the submission deadline and review scheduled for January 2026. The construction contract is anticipated to be awarded in February 2026. This timeline allows contractors sufficient time to submit comprehensive proposals for consideration. Once a bid is awarded, construction is expected to begin in Spring 2026. After construction begins on the headquarters building, design work for the Springvale District Station will start, and an updated timeline for the District Station will be shared at that time.

In April 2025, the City applied for Congressional Directed Spending (CDS) grant funds. After reviewing and vetting hundreds of requests from across Maine, Senator Collins has selected the Sanford Fire Department’s $5 million request to move forward to the next step in the process. The Appropriations Committee will review all nominated projects and make final funding decisions. Those decisions are expected to be announced by the end of 2025.

As the Sanford Springvale community continues to grow, the new Fire Stations represent a vital investment in our shared future, supporting a safer, stronger community for years to come.

To stay up to date on this project, please visit www.sanfordmeconnects.com/new-fire-stations.