Harris County ESD 21 Fire Station No. 3

Fire Station No. 3 exemplifies Harris County Emergency Service District (ESD) 21’s commitment to creating a durable, home-like, and functional facility that can evolve with the needs of its rapidly growing community. Designed to host ESD board meetings, the station’s training room is also available for use by the public to help foster a sense of community. To encourage camaraderie among the crew, the kitchen, dining, and dayroom are all centrally located and accessible from all areas of the building. High ceilings with clerestory windows and natural limestone from the exterior enhance the feeling of openness and serenity.

With a life expectancy of over 50 years, the facility is built with lasting materials and designed for easy expansion from the sleeping room wing and the fourth apparatus bay. Given its proximity to the Gulf Coast, the station features a strengthened structural system, impact-resistant windows, and a full-building generator to ensure it remains operational during and after a hurricane.

Situated on a rural, green, 14-acre site that was formerly rice farmland, the station faced several construction challenges. Extensive drainage solutions were required due to the site’s flat terrain and history as a partially flooded rice paddy. Additionally, the absence of existing utilities necessitated the implementation of a water well, septic system, and retention pond. These challenges required close collaboration with the design and civil engineering teams to ensure the site’s functionality for a fire station.

The thoughtful design and robust infrastructure of Fire Station No. 3 not only supports the immediate needs of the community but also ensures long-term resilience and adaptability. This project reflects a forward-thinking approach, integrating sustainable practices and fostering a strong sense of community, making it a cornerstone for future developments in Harris County.