Beginning Friday, July 17, 2026, the Rochester Fire Department will begin operating from temporary locations as construction starts on the renovation of the Central Fire Station at 37 Wakefield Street. While emergency response services will not be affected, some administrative services will operate differently during construction.

The renovation represents a significant investment in the department’s facilities and will enhance firefighter safety, improve operational efficiency, and better position the department to serve the Rochester community for years to come.

Emergency response services will continue without interruption throughout construction. Fire, EMS, and rescue operations will remain fully staffed and available 24 hours a day. Extensive planning has been completed to ensure there is no disruption to emergency services during the renovation.

During the renovation:

• Fire apparatus and on-duty personnel assigned to the Central Fire Station will operate from temporary locations to maintain emergency response coverage throughout the city.
• Administrative staff, including the Fire Chief, Assistant Chief, Fire Marshal, and administrative personnel, will temporarily operate from office space within other City of Rochester facilities.
• If you need the services of the Fire Marshal, including inspections or other fire prevention matters, please call or email the Fire Marshal’s Office to schedule an appointment.
• Meetings with administrative staff will be available by appointment only.
• Fire permits may be obtained online at www.nhfirepermit.com or in person at Station 2 in Gonic.

“This project is an investment in the future of our department and the community we serve,” said Fire Chief Nick Marique. “While our personnel and equipment will be operating from temporary locations, the public can expect the same level of professional emergency response they have always received. I’m grateful to our City departments for their partnership in accommodating our staff during construction, and I appreciate the patience and support of our residents as we complete these important improvements.”

The Rochester Fire Department will continue to share updates throughout the renovation on the City of Rochester website and the department’s official social media channels. The Rochester Fire Department appreciates the community’s patience and understanding during this temporary transition and will continue to provide updates as the project progresses.