Work has begun to transform the building at 680 Sunbury Road into Fire Station 305, a major public safety upgrade that will enhance fire and emergency medical services for residents, especially those on the City’s east side.

The City of Delaware purchased the vacant building in 2022 and is converting the former furniture warehouse and office space into the community’s fifth fire station, and the first located on the east side of the city. Once complete, the renovated and expanded facility will total 31,089 square feet, featuring five apparatus bays, Fire Department administrative offices, and a 2,700-square-foot training classroom. That classroom will also serve as an alternate meeting space for City Council and committee meetings, providing additional flexibility for civic use. Construction is expected to be completed by July 2027.

“This project reflects thoughtful planning and responsible stewardship of public resources,” said City Manager Paul Brake. “By repurposing an existing building, we’re improving emergency response, supporting a growing community and doing so in a cost-effective way that delivers value for residents.”

Fire Station 305 is designed to directly address service demands created by community growth. Fire Station 301, located on Liberty Street, was built in 1972 when it was the City’s only fire station. Since then, the City has grown substantially, leading to the construction of three additional stations to maintain reliable coverage. Despite those additions, fire and EMS response times on the east side of the city have exceeded the desired six-minute total response time, underscoring the need for a station closer to that area.

“Having a fire station on the east side of the city is critical to meeting our response time goals and ensuring residents receive timely emergency care,” said Fire Chief Tim Pyle. “Fire Station 305 will strengthen our ability to serve the community today while giving the department the space and flexibility needed to support future growth.”

The new station will improve response times, provide much-needed administrative and training space, and allow the Fire Department to continue evolving alongside the community.

Fire Station 301 will remain a key component of the City’s emergency response system. Plans are in place to renovate and update that facility so it can continue serving the central core of the city.