Ocean City, MD – The Ocean City Fire Department is proud to announce the official opening of its new, state-of-the-art midtown fire station, located at 6503 Coastal Highway. This modern facility replaces the longstanding 74th Street fire station, which has served the community since its construction in 1969.
Designed to support the health, safety, and operational readiness of Ocean City’s dedicated firefighters and EMS providers, the new station represents a significant enhancement in emergency response capabilities for the town.
The newly constructed station boasts drive-through apparatus bays, each equipped with a vehicle exhaust system to remove harmful exhaust from areas where personnel work, creating a safer and healthier environment.
Additionally, the station features a spacious gym, supporting the physical and mental wellness of the department’s first responders, as well as a large kitchen where firefighters and EMS providers can come together for meals and camaraderie between calls.
“We are incredibly grateful for the vision and support from the Mayor and Council in making this state-of-the-art facility a reality for Ocean City,” said Fire Chief Richie Bowers. “This station is a testament to their commitment to public safety and will serve our community for many years to come.”
The construction of the new facility was led by Delmarva Veteran Builders, with the town’s Project Manager, Dean Dashield, overseeing the project. Funding for the furniture, fixtures, and essential equipment was raised through a successful capital campaign, led by Ryan Whittington, Amanda Bunting, Sam Villani, Mick Chester, and Mike Maykrantz. The campaign received generous support from a grant by the Bresler Family and the Robert I. Schattner Foundation.
There are still opportunities for the public to leave a lasting legacy at the station. Rooms within the facility remain available for sponsorship, and Legacy Bricks that line the station’s exterior are available for dedication.
Those interested in contributing can visit www.ocbrick.com for more information.
The Ocean City Fire Department invites the community to join in celebrating this milestone and to tour the facility that will serve as a pillar of public safety for years to come.
Photo:
Instead of a traditional ribbon cutting, firefighters used a hose uncoupling ceremony. This ceremony is a fire service tradition that marks the opening of a new fire station.
Left to Right – FRONT ROW:
FF/EMT Mick Chester, Councilman & Asst. Chief Savage, Capital Campaign Chairman Ryan Whittington, City Manager Terry McGean, Mayor Rick Meehan, Fire Chief Rich Bowers, Deputy Chief Chris Shaffer, Asst. Chief Eric Peterson