The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District (SBCoFD) received an allocation of $12,000,000 from the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) Pass-Through Grant Subaward for the replacement of Yucca Valley Fire Station 42. This substantial funding, appropriated by the State Budget Act of 2021, will enable the construction of a state-of-the-art fire station to better serve the growing needs of the Yucca Valley community.
Established in 1959 as a volunteer station, Fire Station 42 has faced significant challenges in accommodating the increasing population and tourism in the area. With a surge in call volume and staffing demands, it has become essential to upgrade the fire station’s facilities. Recognizing the urgency of this situation, SBCoFD conducted an internal assessment in 2015, identifying the replacement of Yucca Valley Fire Station 42 as a top priority.
On July 12, 2021, Governor Gavin Newsom signed the 2021-22 budget (Senate Bill 129), which includes a generous $12 million allocation to County Fire for the replacement of Yucca Valley Fire Station 42. This funding will be disbursed as a Pass-Through Grant Subaward through CalOES, acting on behalf of the State of California.
“These funds wouldn’t have materialized without the efforts of Assembly Member Chad Mayes,” said San Bernardino County 3rd District Supervisor Dawn Rowe. “This outcome is a great example of local government working in unison with our state representatives to ensure rural residents receive the services they need and deserve.”
Mayes, whose State Assembly district includes Yucca Valley, requested $12 million from the Newsom Administration after hearing numerous concerns about public safety from residents, business owners, and local officials, including Rowe.
The replacement of Yucca Valley Fire Station 42 signifies a significant investment in the future of the Yucca Valley community. The new station will be designed to meet the current and future staffing needs, as well as house modern fire apparatus. Furthermore, County Fire will prioritize identifying an optimal location that ensures reduced response times, maximizing the benefits of this cutting-edge fire station.