The History of Station 3
The history of the Lexington Park Volunteer Fire Department’s Station 3 reflects decades of growth, modernization, and continued service to the Lexington Park community.
A Station Built Around Community Needs
Station 3’s history is a reflection of the department’s commitment to adapt and expand as the needs of the community changed. Since its beginning, the station has undergone multiple renovations, additions, and operational improvements to support emergency response, firefighter readiness, training, and department operations.
Station 3 Timeline
1945
The original construction of Station 3 marked the beginning of the Lexington Park Volunteer Fire Department’s journey, with the first three bays built to house the department’s initial fleet.
1952
A fourth bay was added as community needs grew. Designed as a drive-through bay, it housed Engine 34 and Tanker 3 and improved operational efficiency and response readiness.
1975
A fifth bay was added for maintenance on apparatus and equipment. The station was also remodeled, with the former engineer’s room and radio room removed to create rear wall officers’ gear racks. The base of the hose tower became a new radio room, and additional facilities were added, including a larger restroom, two-stall shower, and storage room.
1977
The Sleep-In Program began using five borrowed metal beds from the Navy. The program allowed firefighters to stay on-site overnight, improving readiness and reducing response times.
1979
A second story was added to provide bunkroom space. In 1988, an A-frame roof was constructed over the engine bays, expanding the bunkroom, adding individual rooms for live-in firefighters, and creating additional storage space for gear and equipment.
1995
The bay floor was excavated and lowered by 12 inches to accommodate the new Squad 3, reflecting the department’s continued investment in modern apparatus.
2002
The department acquired the building and land behind Station 3, formerly the site of O’Brien Realty. This provided additional storage, office space, meeting areas, training space, and room for community events.
2003
The New Station 3 Building Committee was formed. The committee visited newly constructed fire stations across Maryland to study design ideas and identify the needs of both apparatus and firefighters.
2005
Additional station modifications were completed to accommodate new equipment, including moving steam pipes and modifying the roof header to house the new Engine 33.
2006
The new Station 3 building was dedicated in August after three years of planning and construction. The modern facility included a social hall used for community events and private functions, generating important revenue to support the department.
2024
The old Station 3 property was sold, and the entire block was demolished to make way for a new gas station and convenience store. This marked another chapter in the department’s history as it continued to evolve with the community.
A Legacy of Service
The history of Station 3 illustrates the department’s dedication to growth, modernization, and community service. Each expansion, renovation, and new program reflected Bay District’s mission to provide dependable fire and rescue services to Lexington Park and the surrounding area.
Historic Station 3 Photos
