St. Augustine, Florida, December 23, 2025
St. Johns County has approved the development of a new Fire Rescue Training Facility to enhance emergency response capabilities and public safety. Located near State Road 16 and Interstate 95, the state-of-the-art training center will focus on providing realistic training environments for firefighters and paramedics. With a budget of $7.5 million supported by state funding, the facility aims to serve as a regional resource and part of a broader public safety investment by the County.
St. Augustine, Florida
St. Johns County Advances Plans for New Fire Rescue Training Facility
St. Johns County has approved the development of a new Fire Rescue Training Facility near State Road 16 and Interstate 95, aiming to enhance emergency response capabilities and public safety.
Project Overview
The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners has taken the initial step toward establishing a state-of-the-art training center for firefighters and paramedics. The facility will be situated on a 58.35-acre county-owned site at 3111 Agricultural Center Drive, St. Augustine. The project is set to proceed in phases as funding becomes available, with the first phase focusing on site evaluation, environmental assessments, programming, conceptual layouts, and the development of a phased master plan with cost estimates. The initial contract for this phase is authorized at a not-to-exceed amount of $297,986.25.
Facility Features
Once fully constructed, the Fire Rescue Training Facility is expected to include:
- Classroom and administrative spaces
- Fire training towers
- Extrication and urban search and rescue areas
- Hazardous materials simulation props
This comprehensive setup is designed to provide realistic training environments, improving coordination, increasing firefighter safety, and better preparing emergency responders for various incidents.
Funding and Timeline
The project is supported by a $7.5 million state legislative appropriation included in the County’s Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Improvement Budget. Future phases will require separate Board approval. The facility’s phased development will depend on the availability of additional funding.
Strategic Importance
This initiative is part of St. Johns County’s broader commitment to enhancing public safety infrastructure. The new training facility aligns with the County’s strategic priorities of Community Well-Being, Organizational Excellence, and Infrastructure. It is expected to serve as a regional resource, benefiting not only St. Johns County but also neighboring areas by providing essential first responder education required by the Insurance Service Organization (ISO) to reduce insurance premiums and instruct the crucial skills to provide a safe and effective operational response.
Background Context
St. Johns County has been actively investing in public safety infrastructure to meet the needs of its growing community. In February 2025, the County approved funding for Fire Station 21 and the Sheriff’s Office in the Flagler Estates community, aiming to improve response times and protection for residents. Additionally, a 5-Year Public Safety Plan presented in April 2024 includes plans for four new public safety stations, a regional fire training center, a medical examiner facility, and an expansion of the Sheriff’s Office headquarters. These efforts reflect the County’s dedication to maintaining high safety standards and effectively serving its residents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the new Fire Rescue Training Facility in St. Johns County?
The facility aims to enhance emergency response capabilities and public safety by providing realistic training environments for firefighters and paramedics, improving coordination, safety, and preparedness for various incidents.
Where will the new Fire Rescue Training Facility be located?
The facility will be situated on a 58.35-acre county-owned site at 3111 Agricultural Center Drive, St. Augustine, near State Road 16 and Interstate 95.
What features will the Fire Rescue Training Facility include?
The facility is expected to include classroom and administrative spaces, fire training towers, extrication and urban search and rescue areas, and hazardous materials simulation props.
How is the Fire Rescue Training Facility being funded?
The project is supported by a $7.5 million state legislative appropriation included in the County’s Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Improvement Budget. Future phases will require separate Board approval.
How does this facility fit into St. Johns County’s broader public safety plans?
The facility is part of the County’s 5-Year Public Safety Plan, which includes plans for four new public safety stations, a regional fire training center, a medical examiner facility, and an expansion of the Sheriff’s Office headquarters, reflecting a commitment to enhancing public safety infrastructure.
Key Features of the Fire Rescue Training Facility
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 58.35-acre county-owned site at 3111 Agricultural Center Drive, St. Augustine, near State Road 16 and Interstate 95. |
| Training Facilities | Classroom and administrative spaces, fire training towers, extrication and urban search and rescue areas, hazardous materials simulation props. |
| Funding | $7.5 million state legislative appropriation included in the County’s Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Improvement Budget. |
| Strategic Importance | Enhances emergency response capabilities and public safety, aligning with the County’s strategic priorities of Community Well-Being, Organizational Excellence, and Infrastructure. |
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