Palm Springs Fire Department Launches Open Houses for Fire Station Modernization

The public is invited to learn about plans to upgrade historic Fire Station No. 1 and provide feedback.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Palm Springs Fire Department is kicking off public outreach for a major modernization project at Fire Station No. 1, starting with the first of two community open houses on February 23. The historic fire station is outdated and no longer meets the needs of firefighters and the growing community, so the department is seeking public input on conceptual designs and potential plans for the station's upgrade.

Why it matters

Fire Station No. 1 is a Class 1 Historic building, so any modernization efforts must balance preserving the station's historic character while also addressing critical safety, space, and operational limitations. Community engagement is essential to ensure the upgraded station best serves the needs of both firefighters and residents.

The details

The open house on February 23 will allow attendees to meet Fire Chief Paul Alvarado, tour the existing facility, and provide feedback on conceptual designs. A City Council study session is scheduled for March 11, and a second open house is set for March 30, also at Fire Station No. 1. The department is aiming to modernize the station to current safety standards and better accommodate the growing community's emergency service needs.

  • The first open house will be held on Monday, February 23 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • A City Council study session is scheduled for March 11.
  • The second open house is set for Monday, March 30 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The players

Paul Alvarado

Fire Chief of the Palm Springs Fire Department.

Fire Station No. 1

A historic fire station in Palm Springs that is being modernized to address safety, space, and operational limitations.

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What they’re saying

“The current fire station is a Class 1 Historic building that is antiquated, not up to current safety standards and no longer fits the needs of our firefighters and growing community. It is imperative that we modernize and find the best location for fast and effective emergency services delivery. Everyone is invited to attend, learn more about the project, and provide feedback. Nothing has been decided yet and community input is essential.”

— Paul Alvarado, Fire Chief (pstribune.com)

What’s next

A City Council study session is being scheduled for March 11, with details to be announced. A second open house is set for Monday, March 30, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., again at Fire Station No. 1.

The takeaway

This modernization project for Palm Springs' historic Fire Station No. 1 highlights the importance of balancing preservation of community landmarks with the need to upgrade critical infrastructure to meet the evolving safety and operational requirements of a growing city. By engaging the public early and often, the fire department can ensure the upgraded station best serves the needs of both firefighters and residents.