Orwigsburg's Friendship Fire Company No. 1 is launching a $6 million capital campaign to construct a state-of-the-art fire station to better serve the community.
Organized in collaboration with the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, the campaign aims to secure vital funding to replace the outdated current facility with a new, modernized two-story station. The new building will feature critical safety enhancements, improved space for operations, and advanced technology to support the life-saving efforts of the department, which serves Orwigsburg Borough and more than 25 surrounding municipalities.
A central focus of the new fire station design is firefighter health and safety. Key features will include a sophisticated air exchange system to eliminate hazardous diesel fumes and a specialized wash area to decontaminate gear after emergency responses. These measures are crucial in minimizing exposure to carcinogens and other harmful substances that firefighters encounter in the line of duty.
In addition to these safety advancements, the new facility will allow the department to exceed minimum fire safety standards and accommodate growing service demands. With expanded space and modern amenities, the station will enhance emergency response times, improve operational efficiency, and position the department to meet the future needs of a growing population.
The fire department has already made significant progress toward realizing this vision. Collaborating with a local architect, they have developed a conceptual design and initiated land development plans. The department is actively pursuing state and federal funding opportunities and working closely with Orwigsburg Borough officials to ensure the project’s success.
A media event to officially kick off the campaign will take place on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at the department’s current location, 121 N. Liberty Street, Orwigsburg, PA.
The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce and the Friendship Fire Company No. 1 invite residents, local businesses, and supporters to attend the media launch event and learn more about how they can contribute to the campaign.