ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – St. Johns County moved forward with plans to build a new fire rescue training facility near State Road 16 and Interstate 95.
The plans were advanced at the previous county commission meeting.
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The modern center would provide firefighters and paramedics with realistic environments to practice rescue drills, hazardous materials handling, and improve coordination and safety.
Fire Chief Sean McGee said the facility will enhance emergency teams’ preparedness and help them respond more effectively to incidents across the county.
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The training center would be built in phases and is expected to cost tens of millions of dollars once fully completed.
It would include classrooms, training towers, and specialized areas designed to simulate real-life emergency scenarios.
Currently, St. Johns County Fire and Rescue has 465 firefighters serving the community.
To support the county’s ongoing growth and five-year safety plan, the department is hiring 55 new firefighters starting in January.
These new recruits will be assigned to recently opened and upcoming fire stations, including the newest station at Silverleaf.
The county’s expansion plan also includes breaking ground on several new fire stations over the next few years.
Fire Station 23 would break ground in 2027 in the Beachwalk/Twin Creeks area off County Road 210, with an expected completion by the end of 2028.
Fire Station 24 is planned for the Long-Leaf Pine/Roberts Road area and is estimated to be finished by the end of 2030.
Fire Station 21 will serve the Flagler Estates region and is expected to open by spring.
Fire Station 22, located in Silverleaf, is projected to be completed by late 2026 or early 2027.
The new phased training facility and expanded firefighter team are key parts of St. Johns County’s strategy to keep pace with growth and maintain high safety standards for residents.