Riviera Beach Fire Rescue Station 88 & Fire Administration Building

The City of Riviera Beach needed a modern replacement for an outdated fire station that was demolished due to mold and structural issues. The new 31,000 sq. ft. facility restores full operational capacity, enhances emergency response times and prioritizes firefighter health and safety. Designed to serve as a civic landmark and prototype for future capital improvements, it houses four apparatus bays, living quarters, individual bunk rooms, a physical conditioning room, fire administration offices and a three-story training tower. Beyond operational functionality, the facility was to set a new standard in addressing both the physical and mental health of first responders, including circadian rhythm lighting, detox saunas, a mental health room with relaxation pods and a zoned alert system to reduce cardiac stress. 

Impact Staying Top of Mind
Delivered in under two years from concept to completion, this project finished on schedule and within 2% of budget, even with multiple Owner-initiated scope additions. Early, sustained collaboration among the City, fire department, design team and trade partners ensured quality and efficiency, overcoming challenges like a 12-month transformer delay with creative on-site solutions. The project incorporated green building strategies such as low-flow plumbing, high-SEER HVAC systems, daylight harvesting and EV charging stations, as well as advanced contamination control measures.

Leadership promoted community engagement, ensuring minority and local firms were not only included but also integrated meaningfully throughout the process. Through deliberate engagement of small, minority and local firms, the project reached 43% participation by Riviera Beach-based firms, 37% small business enterprise (SBE) participation and 24% African American-owned business participation. The team also committed $300,000 in scholarships for local students in fire sciences and construction trades. Public art and a 9/11 memorial strengthen the building’s role as a community anchor. 

The integration of systems for mental health, physical wellness and cancer prevention has created an environment where firefighters feel protected and supported, boosting morale and readiness to serve. This station stands as a model of resilience, inclusivity and design excellence in civic infrastructure. 

Winner – Trailblazer in Inclusive Growth (Small Project)

This project showcased intentional and transformational UBE engagement. Inclusive procurement strategies led to 43% local, 37% small business and 24% African American-owned participation. Leaders ensured these firms were active contributors through meaningful feedback and decision-making opportunities. The team also invested $300,000 in scholarships for students in construction trades to expand the region’s future workforce. The jury praised it “not only a model of civic architecture, but also a blueprint for how diversity can build inclusive growth.”

Design-Build Team

Photos

Photo Credit: Chuck Wilkins Photography