'A Safer, Strong Future': Castro Valley Officials To Break Ground On New Fire Station

CASTRO VALLEY, CA — Construction on a new "long-anticipated" fire station in Castro Valley is expected to begin Wednesday, fire officials said.

The start of construction will be commemorated with a groundbreaking community event from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at 6855 Villareal Dr., the Alameda County Fire Department said in a statement Tuesday.

"This groundbreaking is not just about bricks and mortar, it's about building a safer, stronger future for Castro Valley, said William McDonald, the Alameda County Fire Department chief. McDonald will be speaking at the groundbreaking event.

Officials say the new station, known as Station 7, will replace the aging structure once used by the former Castro Valley Fire Department before it was absorbed into the Alameda County Fire Department in the 90s.

The new one will feature modern infrastructure, improved energy efficiency and public access areas where people can view artwork made in collaboration with the Alameda County Arts Commission, officials said.

The station is expected to have a "critical role" in emergency response services in the region, serving Highway 580 from the Dublin Grade to Strobridge Avenue, officials said.

"Station 7 has long needed a makeover, but this is more than that," fire officials said. "We are building a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility that will serve the community for generations to come."