Jacksonville, FL – The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) marked a major milestone Friday with the groundbreaking of a new Fire Station 39 at 115 Festival Park Ave., a move designed to strengthen public safety infrastructure in the downtown area.
The ceremony, held at 9 a.m., brought together city officials, fire department leaders, and community partners to celebrate the start of construction on the facility, which will house marine operations and a Rescue District Chief.
Fire Station 39 has long served downtown Jacksonville. The original station was located at the end of Catherine Street before moving to Metropolitan Park in 1995. Over nearly three decades, downtown Jacksonville has grown and transformed, prompting the need for a larger, more modern facility.
“As downtown Jacksonville has transformed with continued development of the entertainment district and evolving demands on our department, it’s time for a station that reflects where we are today and where we’re headed tomorrow,” said JFRD Director and Fire Chief Percy Golden II.
The new station will accommodate a Rescue District Chief and marine operations, and its design allows for future expansion as the district continues to grow. The facility will also serve as a base for special events teams during major gatherings, such as the Florida-Georgia game and the Jacksonville Jazz Festival.
Marine 39 operates a 33-foot MetalCraft fireboat specifically designed for downtown waterways, including the St. Johns River and surrounding tributaries. The combination of the new station and the fireboat will allow firefighters to respond efficiently both on land and water across the heart of downtown.
Honoring a Fallen Hero
The new station will also honor Firefighter Edgar A. Cowart, who drowned in the line of duty on Nov. 6, 1986, when a fireboat struck a bridge piling and overturned. “His courage reminds us that every advancement we make, every new station, every new capability, is built on the foundation of those who served before us,” said Chief Golden.
Looking Forward
“This groundbreaking represents more than just a building,” Chief Golden added. “It represents our commitment to progress and to ensuring JFRD continues to evolve alongside our city, stronger, smarter, and ready for whatever the future holds.”
The new Fire Station 39 is expected to serve as a cornerstone for public safety in downtown Jacksonville, ensuring that first responders are prepared for emergencies both on land and water while honoring the legacy of those who have served before.
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