Pompano Beach celebrates the completion and dedication of the new state-of-the-art Fire Station 52 at 10 NW 27 Avenue with a ceremony on Wednesday September 3rd at 10 am

Pompano Beach, Florida – The City of Pompano Beach celebrated a significant milestone on Wednesday, September 3, with the completion and dedication of its newest public safety facility, Fire Station 52. Located at 10 NW 27 Avenue, the state-of-the-art station was officially opened at 10:00 a.m. in a ceremony featuring city officials, community leaders, and members of the fire department. In a fitting tribute, the dedication honored retired firefighter and former City Commissioner Woodrow “Woody” Poitier, the first African American firefighter in Pompano Beach history.

“This new facility is a testament to the city’s commitment to public safety and community service,” said city representatives. Built on a 1.1-acre site, Fire Station 52 encompasses a 16,145-square-foot, two-story structure designed to withstand Category 5 hurricane-force winds. The station features a standing seam metal roof, exterior impact windows and doors, reinforced masonry walls, and durable stucco finishes, ensuring both safety and longevity for first responders and the community.

Woody Poitier’s contributions to Pompano Beach span decades. Over 24 years as a firefighter and paramedic, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant and earned the distinction of Firefighter of the Year in 1986. Following his public safety career, he served more than six years as the District 4 Commissioner, representing the Northwest community with dedication and integrity. Beyond his professional roles, Poitier continues to be a pillar of the community, working as a funeral director and serving on both the Housing Authority Board and the EMS Advisory Board.

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“One of the proudest moments of my career has been to see this station dedicated in honor of Woody Poitier,” said a city official. “His service to the community, both in uniform and in civic leadership, embodies the values we hope to inspire in future generations of public servants.”

Fire Station 52 is part of the City’s ongoing GO Pompano! initiative, funded by the General Obligation (GO) Bond approved by voters in 2018. The program aims to modernize infrastructure, improve public safety, and enhance public spaces throughout Pompano Beach. The station is designed to be both functional and sustainable, reflecting contemporary building standards and environmental considerations.

The facility includes four drive-through apparatus bays, allowing rapid response for emergency vehicles, a training room to support ongoing professional development, and a physical fitness room for firefighters to maintain peak readiness. Living accommodations are modern and private, featuring seven individual bunk rooms and six private officers’ quarters. A full kitchen and a communal day room provide comfortable spaces for personnel during long shifts.

Sustainability played a major role in the design of Fire Station 52. Xeriscape landscaping minimizes water use, low-flow plumbing fixtures conserve resources, and a full backup generator ensures continuous operations during emergencies. The station was constructed to meet Florida Green Building Coalition Gold certification standards, demonstrating the city’s commitment to environmentally responsible development.

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The dedication ceremony was marked by the uncoupling of a fire hose, symbolizing both the opening of the station and the readiness of the firefighters to serve the community. Residents and officials gathered to celebrate not only the physical completion of the station but also the legacy of service embodied by Woody Poitier.

“Fire Station 52 is more than a building; it’s a hub for safety, training, and community engagement,” said a fire department spokesperson. “It represents the city’s investment in its first responders and the residents they protect every day.”

As Pompano Beach continues to invest in infrastructure and public safety through the GO Pompano! program, Fire Station 52 stands as a model of modern design, sustainability, and community dedication. With advanced facilities and a tribute to a trailblazing community leader, the station reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to excellence, resilience, and service for generations to come.