Edmond council approves design funding, $525,000 architect contract for Fire Station No. 3

The Edmond City Council approved a design funding request and selected an architect to advance replacement of Fire Station No. 3.

Fire Chief Terry Esri described the station as 43 years old and nearing the end of its useful life, citing inadequate accommodations for female firefighters, a small lot that requires apparatus to stop traffic to back in, and insufficient separation between apparatus bays and living quarters to manage contaminants. He said a 2021 feasibility study found a remodel would extend useful life only about 15 years and that replacement is the most durable option.

Council approved a supplemental appropriation of $600,000 for design services and authorized a professional services proposal with GH2 Architects LLC for design work not to exceed $525,000. Chief Esri said the city chose a local architect in part to keep design dollars in the local economy and because the firm has fire‑station experience. Council members said they supported moving forward with design, noting construction budgeting and long‑term maintenance costs will be discussed later when staff brings construction financing options.

Why it matters: Replacing a decades‑old fire station affects response logistics, firefighter safety and long‑term maintenance and operating costs. The council’s approval starts the design and procurement timeline that will precede construction decisions.

Next steps: Staff will proceed with design under the approved contract and return to council with construction cost estimates and financing options when available.