FDNY - New York City Fire Department
10/28/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/28/2025 14:13
FDNY, NYC Department of Design and Construction break ground on new firehouse for Engine 268/Ladder 137 in Queens
October 28, 2025
FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker joined New York City officials on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, to officially break ground on the site of the future home of FDNY Engine Company 268/Ladder Company 137 in Queens.
The new firehouse will be built at 116-11 Beach Channel Drive, replacing the existing building located on Beach 116th Street. The new firehouse location is across the street from the September 11th Tribute Park.
"Today, we break ground on a new firehouse that represents resilience, progress, and a commitment to protecting the people of The Rockaways," FDNY Commissioner Tucker said. "This project has been years in the making. Of more than 1,000 potential locations, this site stood out, because it allows us to build for the future right here in the heart of the community. This new, state-of-the-art facility was designed with resilience and sustainability in mind. This new firehouse will stand as a beacon of safety and service for generations to come, and I can't wait to see this vision come to fruition."
The 16,760-square-foot firehouse will feature drive-through capabilities so apparatus can pull straight into the bays without having to reverse. There will be ample space for tools, workshops, equipment storage, locker rooms, fitness equipment and training capabilities. There will also be a featured art installation from a local artist in a landscaped area along Beach 117th Street.
The total cost for design and construction of the new facility is $40 million. It is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2027.
New York City Department of Design and Construction Acting Commissioner Eduardo del Valle, City Councilwoman Joann Ariola and other Department and local officials joined FDNY Commissioner Tucker for the event.
Engine 268/Ladder 137 was formed in 1913 in the Rockaway Park section of Queens. The original firehouse, located on Beach Channel Drive, was constructed between 1912 and 1913. It sustained damaged during Hurricane Sandy.
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