Historic Chula Vista Fire Station One Gets New Life After Major Renovation
The historic Chula Vista Fire Station One is entering the future while honoring its past. After 77 years of service, the station has undergone a much-needed renovation and was officially rededicated this week.
Dedicated initially on Valentine’s Day in 1948, Fire Station One holds a special place in the heart of Chula Vista’s fire service. The station is so iconic that it’s featured on the department’s patch. While the station’s classic fire alarm remains, the rest of the facility has been upgraded to serve the growing community better.
The updates include a modern kitchen, a new weight room, a meeting space, and refurbished bays equipped with updated tools and vehicles. These improvements are essential, as Chula Vista Fire Station One is one of the busiest fire stations in the nation. Chula Vista Fire Chief Harry Munn called it the “cornerstone of the fire service that’s provided to the community.”
A piece of history also hangs on the station’s wall—a bell from the beloved “Old Goose” fire truck and a commemorative plaque. The Old Goose was retired in 1948 when the Fire Department moved into the then-new Fire Station One at 447 F Street. For two decades, the truck’s whereabouts were unknown until it was discovered sitting in a lemon orchard owned by a local dentist. In 1968, Dr. M. Brent Campbell offered the Old Goose as a gift to the city. Restoration efforts soon followed to bring the antique engine and body back to life.
Funding for the recent station renovation came from Measure P, a half-cent sales tax approved by Chula Vista voters in 2017. The measure has generated $245 million, which has been dedicated to improving the city’s infrastructure, including fire stations, parks, roads, and storm drains. This is Measure P’s third time supported a fire station project in Chula Vista.
Chula Vista Mayor John McCann praised the measure, noting that it has helped the city maintain critical services as costs continue to rise. While he jokingly admitted that Measure P didn’t cover the cost of the ceremonial scissors used at the rededication, he emphasized the tax’s role in keeping the city on solid financial ground.
In November, 73% of Chula Vista voters agreed to extend Measure P for another decade. Chief Munn stressed the importance of this decision, pointing out that the price of essential equipment like ladder trucks has skyrocketed to over $1 million in just five years.
With the renovations complete, Chula Vista Fire Station One is ready to continue serving Chula Vista for years to come. The station stands as a reminder of the community’s commitment to safety and progress, blending history with the tools needed for the future. Be sure to follow the Chula Vista Fire Department on Instagram for updates and news.
