North Port Fire Rescue breaks ground on new Station 81

Published on January 29, 2026

The City of North Port celebrated a major milestone on Thursday in its ongoing commitment to public safety and resiliency with a ceremonial groundbreaking for the reconstruction of Fire Station 81, the community’s flagship fire station.

Originally built in 1998, Station 81 serves as both a fire station and the administrative headquarters for North Port Fire Rescue on the City Hall campus along City Center Boulevard. The station sustained significant damage during Hurricane Ian, and years of space constraints and code issues highlighted the need for a modern facility that better serves the community.

Initial plans focused on renovating and expanding the aging station, but post‑Ian assessments showed that bringing the existing structure up to current building codes would be more expensive than a full replacement.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, City leaders emphasized that the project is about strengthening public safety and supporting the firefighters who protect the community.

"For our Fire Rescue professionals, this new station will be a secure, functional home base where they can live, train and respond effectively," City Manager Jerome Fletcher said. "Its reconstruction marks a major step forward in modernizing North Port’s essential infrastructure."

The approximately $17.5 million reconstruction is being funded primarily through county sales surtax revenues, along with fire district fees, impact fees and the City’s general fund. Demolition of the existing station began in December, and construction of the new facility is expected to be completed by December 2026, with crews operating from a nearby temporary station to maintain uninterrupted service to residents.

The City of North Port remains committed to transparency and community engagement throughout the Station 81 Construction Project. Residents can expect regular updates on construction progress, timelines and milestones as the City works to deliver a flagship fire station that reflects the resilience, values and future vision of the North Port community.

To stay up to date on the project, visit NorthPortFL.gov/Station81.