The history of the Lexington Park Volunteer Fire Department, Station 3, is a testament to the department's commitment to adapting and expanding to meet the evolving needs of its community. Over the years, the station has undergone significant modifications and additions:
**1945:** The original construction saw the creation of the first three bays of the Lexington Park Volunteer Fire Department, Station 3.
**1952:** Recognizing the need for more space, a fourth bay was added. This bay was unique as it was designed as a drive-through bay and housed Engine 34 and Tanker 3.
**1975:** A fifth bay was added, primarily intended for maintenance on apparatus and equipment. This expansion also involved a station remodel that removed the old engineer's room and radio room. The space was repurposed to accommodate rear wall officers' gear racks, and the hose tower base was converted into the radio room. Additionally, the station saw the addition of a larger restroom, a two-stall shower, and a small storage room.
**1977:** The Sleep-in program was initiated, making use of five borrowed metal beds from the Navy in the storage room and shower room.
**1979:** To further accommodate the needs of the department, a second story was added. Initially serving as the bunkroom, this space was later expanded in 1988 when an "A" frame roof was constructed over the engine bays. This expansion allowed for more bunkroom space, including individual rooms for live-in firefighters, as well as storage areas that would later be used for gear storage and equipment storage.
**1995:** The bay floor had to be excavated and lowered by 12 inches to make room for the new Squad 3, reflecting the ongoing need to upgrade and replace apparatus.
**2005:** Significant modifications were required, including moving steam pipes and modifying the roof header, to accommodate the new Engine 33.
**2002:** The acquisition of the building and land behind Station 3, formerly used as O'Brien Reality, provided additional space for storage, office facilities, meetings, training, and community events such as the annual haunted house hosted by the Associates of Bay District.
**2003:** The formation of the "New Station 3 Building Committee" marked the beginning of a comprehensive planning process. Committee members invested substantial time visiting other newly constructed fire stations across Maryland, identifying the needs of both apparatus and firefighters, and seeking suitable land for a new station.
**2006:** After a three-year planning and construction effort, the new Station 3 building was dedicated in August. This modern facility included a successful social hall, frequently rented for various events, generating revenue crucial for purchasing essential items that the department might not otherwise afford.
This history illustrates the department's dedication to growth, modernization, and community service, ensuring that it can continue to provide essential firefighting and rescue services for many years to come.