Old Town Murrieta Fire Station Undergoing Extensive Construction Work

MURRIETA, CA — Extensive construction work is set to begin this week on Murrieta Fire & Rescue Station 1 in Old Town.

Despite its charming exterior facade at 41825 Juniper Street, the station needs modernization, according to city officials. The rehab work is scheduled to begin Dec. 3, and the scope entails transitioning from a septic system to a municipal sewer connection, installing modular wetland systems to improve water quality, and necessary ADA modifications.

Additional work includes site grading, removal and replacement of site concrete and asphalt, new gates and fencing, and relocation of the natural gas generator.

The station opened in April 1966 and was enlarged to have four bays in 1987.

"Modernizing the fire service means more than just new equipment; it requires ensuring that all our stations, even the oldest ones, meet modern safety and operational standards," said Murrieta Fire & Rescue Chief Bernard Molloy. "This project is a vital investment in our infrastructure, enhancing our long-term ability to serve and protect the community."

Construction will take place from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The work is expected to be completed in May 2026.

City and fire department officials are asking for patience from residents, particularly those near Murrieta Elementary School and the nearby daycare. The contractor will coordinate closely with the city to minimize impacts during school drop-off and pick-up times, according to the city.

Temporary traffic control measures, including detours and signage, will be in place near Juniper Street. Drivers and pedestrians are urged to exercise extreme caution when traveling through the construction area.

Project updates, timelines, and traffic advisories will be shared through the city and via Murrieta Fire & Rescue’s official social media channels, as well as a dedicated project sign posted at the site.

"It is critical to approach these facility upgrades in a professional and safety-conscious manner, especially in a dense area," said City Engineer Jeffrey Hitch. "These improvements will provide essential public safety access, along with necessary water quality and sewer upgrades for Fire Station 1, ensuring it can operate efficiently for decades to come."

Earlier this year, Fullerton-based DeArk Engineering & Construction Inc. won the construction bid on the project. The bid came in just under $2.8 million.