In a previous post HERE, we explored the different CFD firehouse designs constructed under the Alive 21 program. The stations built included Engines 18, 38, 63, 70, 84, 88, 102, 121, Air/Sea Rescue, and Engine 109, which is still under construction. Among the variations discussed were two similar designs that differed in features such as the inclusion of a hose tower, the roofline, and the amount of glass along the top of the apparatus bays. A third design is now being used for Engine 109’s new station and also for Engine 16’s new house. Interestingly, Engine 16’s building marks the start of what the City of Chicago Public Building Commission (PBC) calls the “Prototype B†engine company houses—though it's worth noting that Engine 109’s design is identical.
Square footage varies depending on the specific needs of each engine company. For example, Engine 102’s house covers about 14,000 square feet, while Engine 121’s is larger at 18,000 square feet. These differences reflect the allocation of office space, meeting areas, and training facilities. Engine 16’s new station will be even bigger at 18,500 square feet, including space for a Haz-Mat unit, storage, and offices for the EMS Field Division South.
A site sign for Engine 109’s new house can be seen here, showing the progress of this ongoing project. Initially, the rear of the apparatus bays had only two wide doors, as seen in stations like Engine 38, 63, 84, and 88. However, later designs changed to include three single-width doors at the rear, matching the front. This updated style was used for Engines 18, 70, 102, and 121.
The PBC website has links to all completed fire stations and current projects. You can view galleries of photos showing the progress of these builds. Some stations, like Engine 88, feature a hose tower, while others, like Engine 102, do not. Engine 121’s station stands out with its unique landscaping and solar panels on the roof.
Hank Sajovic also noted an unusual design choice for Engine 84’s station, where the apparatus exits to the west, even though the watch room is on the east side. All stations were originally designed with the "front" on the left side when viewed from the street, facing the flag poles.
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