Fire and EMS Facilities Modernization Program
Cleveland
Summary
All 24 fire stations are slated for repair, with 12 getting additions and 9 marked for replacement due to cancer risks from diesel exhaust. Fire apparatus lead times run about two years nationwide, and most spare engines and ladders are in poor condition.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 8
- Last 30 days
- 2
Rising — discussed at 3 meetings since Sep 30, 2026, up from 0 in the two months before.
Impact analysis
Major capital spending ahead for station repairs and replacements; overtime projected 25% over budget.
Firefighters get healthier, safer stations; residents get reliable fire response.
Firefighters exposed to diesel exhaust in horseshoe-shaped stations; residents if spare apparatus fail.
Mentions & discussions (8)
Safety Committee — October 28, 2026
All 24 fire stations are slated for repair, with 12 getting additions and 9 marked for replacement due to cancer risks from diesel exhaust. Fire apparatus lead times run about two years nationwide, and most spare engines and ladders are in poor condition.
City Council — October 26, 2026
The city is planning energy conservation improvements across local fire and emergency medical service stations through a guaranteed energy savings performance contract.
Safety Committee — September 30, 2026
The city presented a comprehensive $245 million plan to repair, renew, or replace all 24 fire and EMS stations across Cleveland. Council members questioned how the city will finance the project and emphasized the importance of worker safety, building maintenance, and equitable neighborhood investment.
Huge cost to modernize Cleveland Fire and EMS stations
Huge cost to modernize Cleveland Fire and EMS stations Cleveland 19 News
Safety Committee — June 3, 2026
The city is moving forward with plans to replace the outdated 1957 Fire Station No. 23 by using eminent domain to acquire a vacant commercial site at 10022 Madison Avenue. Officials emphasized that the current station poses severe health and safety risks due to diesel exhaust and cramped conditions, though property representatives argue voluntary negotiations should continue.
Committee of the Whole — June 1, 2026
The city is working to acquire property on Madison Avenue to build a brand new Fire Station No. 23. Officials emphasize that the current station is outdated and handles heavy emergency call volume, making a new facility critical for firefighter safety and rapid response times.
Municipal Services and Properties Committee — May 11, 2026
The city proposed acquiring vacant commercial property at 10022 Madison Avenue using eminent domain and appraisal valuation to build a modern, health-compliant fire station replacing the outdated Station 23.
Safety Committee — March 11, 2026
Cleveland police are investing $320,000 to overhaul their 13-year-old mobile command bus with modern IT, satellite communications, and mechanical repairs. This avoids the $1.5 million cost of buying a brand-new vehicle while ensuring dispatchers and commanders have a mobile post for emergencies and major events.
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