Lincoln Fire Station No. 8 Opens with “Ribbon-Cutting” Event

Lincoln’s Newest Fire Station is Now Open!

Lincoln, Neb. – The City of Lincoln has officially completed and opened its brand-new Fire Station No. 8, marking a significant milestone in the city's ongoing commitment to safety and service. Located at 17th and Van Dorn Streets, this state-of-the-art facility stands as a symbol of resilience, community, and dedication to protecting Lincoln’s residents.

"Today, I am thrilled to announce the official completion of the new Lincoln Fire and Rescue Station Number 8," said Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird.

 

What Makes Lincoln’s Fire Station No. 8 Unique?

More than just a functional space, Fire Station No. 8 was designed to embody the spirit of camaraderie and service.

"We focused on creating a 'Fire House,' not just a 'Fire Station'," said Project Manager Michael Sinclair. "Fire Houses embody community spirit, dedication, and teamwork. We aimed to capture that essence through the design."

A fire station is more than bricks and mortar; it is a beacon of hope—a place where courageous individuals stand ready to protect their neighbors. While the wail of a siren may signal danger, the station itself remains a source of strength and unity.

"Fire stations are part of our neighborhoods and are a testament to the city's commitment to safety and service," said Fire Chief Dave Engler.

How Fire Station No. 8’s Design Enhances Safety & Efficiency:

One of the key design goals was to integrate this essential facility into the surrounding neighborhood while ensuring efficiency, safety, and comfort for Lincoln’s firefighters.

"Integrating this utilitarian building into a peaceful neighborhood was a key goal," says Sinclair. "Material choices, textures, and massing were carefully considered. The embossed brick '8' on the corner tower is a distinctive design element."

Key Features of Fire Station No. 8:

  • 16,000-square-foot modern facility
  • Strategically located for improved emergency response times
  • Designed for evolving firefighter needs
  • Enhanced safety features for first responders

"We designed this station to support the critical work you [firefighters] do every single day," said Engler.

Schemmer’s Role in the Project:

The new station was a collaborative effort between Schemmer and BRW Architects, ensuring the highest quality design and engineering solutions.

Schemmer’s contributions included:

  • Managing the design process and ensuring code compliance
  • Engaging the community through meetings and presentations
  • Coordinating with the City of Lincoln’s Building and Safety Department
  • Assisting in selecting qualified local contractors
  • Providing Mechanical, Electrical, Structural, Civil, and Geotechnical Engineering services

"Designing for evolving firefighter needs, including advanced equipment and processes, was a great but rewarding challenge," explains Sinclair. "Collaborating with BRW was invaluable."

Lincoln Fire Station No. 8 Opens with "Ribbon-Cutting" Event

Why Fire Station No. 8 Feels Like Home for Firefighters:

Beyond providing critical emergency services, Fire Station No. 8 is designed to be a home away from home for Lincoln’s firefighters—a place where they can rest, recharge, and bond between calls.

"We work together. We live together. We eat together. We exercise together. We train together. We celebrate little wins together. And we mourn losses together," said Captain Adam Schrunk. "To have a safe and comfortable place to return to, to unwind, to fellowship, to laugh or to cry, is more important than the citizen can understand."

This focus on firefighter well-being ensures that those who serve the community have a space where they can recuperate and stay prepared for any emergency.

A Commitment to Safety and Well-Being:

The completion of Fire Station No. 8 is a major step in strengthening Lincoln’s emergency response capabilities. With improved response times and enhanced facilities, the station ensures that first responders can continue to serve the community with efficiency and care.

"This new station improves response times, supports the health and well-being of our team members, and advances our goal to make Lincoln the safest and healthiest capital city in America," said Mayor Gaylor Baird.

A Lasting Investment in Lincoln:

Schemmer is proud to have played a role in this important public safety project, providing comprehensive design services, including Mechanical, Electrical, Structural, Civil, and Geotechnical Engineering. Throughout the process, we actively engaged with the community to ensure Fire Station No. 8 met both functional and aesthetic needs.

"Beyond its function, the new fire station represents the city's commitment to its residents. It symbolizes the enduring spirit of humanity and the unwavering belief in overcoming adversity," said Sinclair.

With Fire Station No. 8 now fully operational, Lincoln continues to demonstrate its dedication to creating a safer, stronger, and more connected community for generations to come.

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Learn more about our expertise in fire station design and public infrastructure projects.

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