Chicago Fire Department, Facility Assessments and Basis of Design Development

Chicago has long been a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and identity. For more than a century, local fire stations have been embedded within these communities, supporting the Chicago Fire Department’s mission and motto: “We’re there when you need us.” In support of this mission, the City of Chicago (2FM) engaged Wight and a team of consultants to evaluate 102 fire station facilities and identify opportunities to ensure they serve as future‑ready workplaces and healthy, comfortable homes away from home for firefighters.

Given the uniqueness of each station and the neighborhoods they serve, this effort was a complex undertaking. Wight managed the assessment through a detailed project plan and close coordination with city officials, maintenance staff, and the Chicago Fire Department. The team completed a Facility Condition Assessment (FCA) to establish a conceptual basis of design for recommended improvements, develop a clear prioritization methodology, and create a 15‑year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) outlining anticipated capital, maintenance, and repair expenditures.

The assessment provides a comprehensive roadmap for modernizing facilities with industry‑standard systems, meeting evolving code requirements, and optimizing space utilization. Recommendations prioritize firefighter safety and well‑being through best practices in fire station design, including improved air quality, enhanced security, and dedicated areas for rest and fitness. Integrated cost estimates, retro‑commissioning of existing systems, and analysis of system performance and life span inform a centralized, easy‑to‑use asset management dashboard. Together, these strategies position the City of Chicago to invest strategically in its fire stations, benefiting firefighters and the communities they serve for generations to come.