HILO – The County of Hawaiʻi has signed a five-year lease for a temporary fire station at 1382 Kīlauea Avenue in Hilo, as fire personnel and equipment will be temporarily relocated from the Central Fire Station for necessary repairs.
The Central Fire Station, built in 1939, is the County’s oldest and requires significant repairs. The facility houses eight personnel per shift and five vehicles, including a fire engine and an advanced life support ambulance.
“The Central Fire Station is one of our island’s busiest, and our firefighters deserve facilities that are safe and meet their needs,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “During this transition period, our administration will explore long-term options for the future of the station as we seek to improve emergency services.”
The lease for the temporary location will take effect on April 1 or upon occupancy, whichever is later. The lease can be extended for two additional five-year terms.
Once the fire crew has relocated, the Department of Public Works’ Building Division will begin repairs to the Central Fire Station, located at 466 Kinoʻole Street. The repairs will focus on preserving the building’s exterior integrity, including replacing the roof, repairing the plaster coating on the exterior walls, making structural repairs to the hose tower, and removing most of the plaster from the ceiling.
“The Central Fire Station has served as a cornerstone of our island’s emergency response for over 80 years,” said Fire Chief Kazuo Todd. “While these repairs are necessary to preserve its legacy, our focus remains on ensuring uninterrupted, high-quality service to the community. This temporary relocation allows our dedicated personnel to operate safely and effectively as we prepare the station for future use.”
Todd emphasized that the relocation will not affect emergency services or response times.
Before the relocation, upgrades will be made to the temporary location, including the installation of showers, a dorm area, and other necessary improvements.
Following the relocation, no emergency services will be available at the Central Fire Station.
