Fountain Valley Gets $2 Million to Build a New Fire Station

Fountain Valley city leaders gathered on Thursday to celebrate $2 million in new funding for a modern fire station. The money was secured by U.S. Representative Derek Tran, who represents the Cypress area. A large ceremonial check was handed over at Fire Station No. 1 on Bushard Street, right across from Fountain Valley High School. The event included firefighters, city officials, and a fire engine parked inside the station's garage bay.

Rep. Tran spoke about why he worked hard to get this money for the city. He said a new fire station will mean faster response times and better equipment for firefighters. He also called the funding an investment in training and saving lives. Tran added that the money shows tax dollars are coming back to help local neighborhoods and families.

One important guest at the ceremony was Tracy McQuaid, the widow of former Fire Chief Bill McQuaid. Chief McQuaid had pushed hard for this funding before he passed away in July 2025. He made several trips to Washington, D.C., to help move the project forward. Mayor Jim Cunneen and Fire Chief Chris Nigg both honored his memory during their speeches.

City Manager Maggie Le said the city invited Tracy McQuaid because improving the fire department was a top goal for her husband. She said it was very meaningful to have McQuaid's wife there to see the moment. Chief McQuaid had been honored with a memorial bench at Huntington State Beach, near where he died while off duty. His efforts behind the scenes helped make Thursday's celebration possible.

Back in April 2023, the city spent over $8 million to buy a piece of land on Bushard Street. Officials were already thinking about replacing Fire Station No. 1, which was built in 1958 on a very small lot. That new property is still being considered as the site for the future fire station. However, city officials want to study the community's needs before making any final decisions.

In June, the City Council approved a contract with a company called AP Triton, LLC to study the fire department's needs. Fire Chief Nigg said the study will look at how many calls the department gets and what risks may grow as more housing is built in the city. He wants to make sure the department can handle future demands. The goal is to use real data and science to guide the city's decisions about its fire services.