North Port is currently constructing two new fire stations simultaneously — a first for the city, according to the fire rescue administration.

Fire Station 87 is nearing completion in the Wellen Park area, where officials say extended response times prompted the build, as residential development has brought more residents to the area. The station is expected to open by this summer.

Fire Station 81, located near City Hall, is being fully demolished and rebuilt after sustaining significant damage during past hurricane seasons. Because of the extent of the damage, officials determined the structure had to be torn down to meet current building codes. That project is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Firefighter James Byrd, who sheltered at Station 81 during Hurricane Ian, described watching the roof peel away and water flooding in through the ceiling during the storm. While Station 81 is under reconstruction, its crew is operating out of a temporary building nearby.

Deputy Fire Chief Nick Herlihy noted that both new stations are designed with hurricane resiliency in mind, including expanded bunk space to accommodate double or triple staffing during major storms.

The Station 81 rebuild carries a price tag of $17.5 million, funded primarily through the county surtax and fire district fee.

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