O’Connell and Chief Lavigne Announce Plan to Replace Three Outdated Fire Stations

For Immediate Release: 12/17/2024

O'Connell and Chief Lavigne Announce Plan to Replace Three Outdated Fire Stations

Taunton, MA -Mayor Shaunna O'Connell and Fire Chief Steven Lavigne announced that the City of Taunton is advancing the design phase for three new fire stations to replace the historic but aging Weir Fire Station, Bay Street Fire Station, and East Taunton Fire Station. Each of these stations has proudly served the community for more than 100 years.

"We are committed to enhancing public safety, and that means giving our firefighters and police officers the tools they need to protect the community and go home safe each day. In addition to our new public safety facility, replacing outdated fire stations is another big step forward." said O'Connell "I'm grateful for the brave men and women of Taunton Fire and Police who protect our community every day."

The replacement of the three fire stations will be funded entirely through O'Connell's Capital Improvement Plan, ensuring there are no additional assessments to taxpayers. In addition to the new stations, plans are in place for repairs to Oakland Fire Station to guarantee its continued safety and functionality.

Fire Chief Steven Lavigne commended the Mayor's commitment to the Fire Department and the City's proactive leadership. "Thank you, Mayor O'Connell-this is a great day for the Taunton Fire Department. Just over a year ago, the Mayor unveiled plans for a new Public Safety Facility, and now we're moving forward with three new fire stations. The administration has been incredibly responsive to our needs, and we appreciate their dedication to our department. I'd like to thank Deputy Chief Jason Boiros and Deputy Chief Mathew Arruda for their outstanding efforts on this project."

The new fire stations will address critical safety standards and incorporate state-of-the-art technology, advanced training spaces, and modern accommodations to support the department's diverse workforce. P3 - Project Planning Professionals has been appointed as the project manager for this initiative, with Caolo & Bieniek Associates leading the architectural design. Both firms bring their expertise to this critical public safety project, having already partnered with the City on the new Public Safety Facility on County Street.

Mayor O'Connell expressed her gratitude to the Fire Department, the Advisory Committee, and her team for their collaborative efforts in advancing this essential project. "This initiative reflects what we can achieve when we work together toward a common goal. These new fire stations will serve as a testament to the strength and resilience of our City for generations to come."

The City is committed to keeping residents informed as the project progresses and will provide regular updates on the design and construction timeline.###