City Council Approves $3.2M Renovation for Local Fire Station
Fire Station 145, serving Bridle Path and neighboring districts, is slated for upgrades aimed at modernizing equipment and improving response capabilities.
May 25, 2025 at 22:53 • By Marcus Bell, Bridle Watch
Bridle Path’s fire safety infrastructure is getting a major boost with City Council approving a $3.2 million renovation of Fire Station 145. Located just minutes from the neighbourhood’s core, the station is considered a critical node for emergency response across North York and serves a region that includes several high-value estates and greenbelt areas. The upgrades are aimed at modernizing equipment and expanding facilities to meet growing demand.
The renovation plan includes a complete overhaul of the station’s apparatus bay to accommodate new hybrid and electric fire trucks expected to enter service in 2026. Additionally, updated decontamination zones, improved HVAC systems, and advanced training facilities will be added to bring the station up to current safety and environmental standards. “It’s not just about keeping pace — it’s about future-proofing our emergency services,” said Councillor Eva Marquez.
For years, residents have raised concerns about long response times in the area due to winding streets and estate gates. The renovations aim to counteract this by enabling faster dispatch, upgraded GPS systems, and on-site data integration for all units. “With homes spaced further apart and limited road access in places, we need specialized readiness,” said Fire Chief Grant Morales.
Part of the funding will also go toward a small community outreach center within the station. This will host seasonal safety seminars, CPR training, and school visits. “We want this station to be more than reactive — we want it to be proactive,” said project coordinator Rachel Kwan. The initiative is modeled after similar community fire centers in Vancouver and Calgary.
Bridle Path residents welcomed the news, with many noting that the area’s aging homes and increasing use of private security systems highlight the need for better public emergency infrastructure. “It’s about resilience,” said resident Amrita Sharma. “We invest millions in our homes — we should be investing in the people who protect them too.”
Contractors selected for the renovation include a mix of public sector construction firms and sustainability consultants. Materials will prioritize low-emission composites and modular systems designed to reduce environmental impact. The project’s LEED Silver certification goal will make it the first such fire station in North York.
During construction, temporary relocation plans are being coordinated with surrounding stations and mobile units. Emergency services will continue uninterrupted, though residents may see different vehicles or response teams during peak phases of the build. Signage and community bulletins will provide updates in real time.
While the project is projected to take 14 months, officials are optimistic about hitting the early completion deadline thanks to pre-approved zoning and budget allocation. Once completed, Fire Station 145 is expected to serve the Bridle Path area for at least another 40 years, setting a new benchmark for urban fire response in Toronto.
The announcement underscores a shift in how the city is approaching affluent neighbourhoods — not as zones of privilege, but as integral parts of Toronto’s shared infrastructure map. As Fire Chief Morales put it, “Safety shouldn’t be gated. It should be guaranteed.”