Why Updating the South Shore Fire Station Matters to All of Us

At the July 19 Neighborhood Association Chairs meeting, our Palisades neighbor Chris Durkee gave an important update on the Lake Oswego South Shore Fire Station. Chris chairs the task force focused on funding a much-needed remodel of the station—and he shared some eye-opening reasons why this project is so critical.

Chris, whose son works for the Lake Oswego Fire Department, explained why modernizing the South Shore station is essential for both response times and firefighter safety.

What You Might Not Know About Emergency Response in Lake Oswego:

• When a cardiac-related 911 call comes in, paramedics from two of our four fire stations are dispatched. The department aims to have six responders on the scene, a standard that has directly contributed to improved survival rates.

• If we drop from four stations to three, response times will increase, especially when two stations are already out on calls.

• In a fire emergency, staff from all four stations respond. Losing one could severely impact coverage across town.

• For residents in Old Town, the train tracks can delay help from the downtown station. The South Shore Fire Station is the fastest responder—without it, backup would have to come from across town, increasing risk during life-threatening situations.

Lake Oswego’s Changing Demographics Matter

Nationally, about 60% of medical 911 calls involve people age 60 and older. In Lake Oswego, that number is even higher—70% of calls involve residents 70 and older. Our aging population makes quick emergency response more important than ever.

New Challenges for Firefighters

Electric vehicle fires are increasingly common and require firefighters to wear specialized protective gear that can become contaminated. The gear and responders must be decontaminated before entering the firehouse—a process our current South Shore station is not equipped to handle.

Why This Fire Station Needs to Be Rebuilt

Built in 1971, the South Shore Fire Station has exceeded its life expectancy. The new facility will:

• Be earthquake-resilient

• Provide adequate living and working quarters for modern firefighting teams

• Include decontamination areas to keep firefighters safe

• Offer pull-through access for engines, reducing traffic hazards on South Shore Blvd.

Where the Project Stands Now

The project is moving forward. An architect has been selected, and the city is now choosing a construction manager. The architect will develop site studies and a conceptual design, while the construction manager will prepare cost estimates.

Once the design and cost are approved by the City Council, a bond measure will appear on the May 2026 ballot to fund the project.

Learn more here