A brand-new $3.2 million rural fire station for Bismarck’s outlying districts is now operational, offering full amenities and improved readiness to serve residents faster.

Key Facts Up Front

The new 9,000-sq-ft facility is sited near U.S. Highway 83 and 71st Street. It includes a kitchen, sleeping quarters, exercise room, offices, laundry, and space for three fire vehicles with expansion room. Currently staffed on a part-time basis as the department works toward 24/7 full staffing.

Funding came mostly through American Rescue Plan (ARP) relief to Burleigh County and local taxpayer support.

As Bismarck expands northward, response times for emergencies in rural areas have grown longer. The previous rural station was little more than a garage—no rest areas, no showers, no capacity to support 24-hour staffing. The need has become more urgent, especially during winter blizzards or fire‐prone dry conditions.

Burleigh County officials pressed for the project, tying it to federal relief funds from the COVID era to ensure rural residents are better protected.

“If we have those blizzards in the wintertime … splitting the district helps us take care of citizens much better,”
said Fire Chief Dustin Theurer.

“Ten, even fifteen minutes faster in an emergency is a win for everybody,”
added Assistant Chief Brian Reinke, noting earlier delays from the southern station.

The station is already active, though full staffing around the clock is still in progress. Eight volunteer firefighters are currently assigned to this station and will respond when available. The department plans to phase in 24/7 coverage as budget, staffing, and logistics allow. Expansion room is built in, anticipating growth and future demand.

With this new station now operational, Bismarck is making strides in ensuring that residents in rural zones are not left waiting when emergencies strike. Faster response, modern facilities, and a future roadmap for full staffing mean that this isn’t just a structure—it’s a lifeline.