Building for the Future: Bittinger Volunteer Fire Department’s New Firehouse Project

In 2022, after identifying a property for sale in the Bittinger area, the department proactively approached our local and state government leaders to seek support for a long-term facility solution. Discussions were held with our local senator, delegate, and the Garrett County Commissioners to outline the project and the departments desire to erect a new firehouse in the Bittinger area and the benefits it would bring to emergency services and the community.

With resounding support from local and state leadership, the department successfully secured a $1,000,000 capital grant through the state of Maryland to purchase and renovate the facility. The building and property were purchased from Beitzel Corporation which consists of a 10,000-plus square foot facility and 5 acres that was previously used for fleet maintenance. This space allows for all of our apparatus to be stored under one roof, supporting improved maintenance and equipment readiness, while also providing better access to Route 495 for faster response times and the ability for the department to expand services as necessary.

Following a lengthy planning and approval process, the department officially closed on the property in 2024—marking a major milestone in the project. We are now pleased to announce that as of January 2026 the next phase is underway. A contractor has been selected, and renovations have officially begun to convert the facility into our new firehouse.

Renovations and building improvements currently underway include, but are not limited to, installation of an emergency generator, lighting upgrades, improvements to office and administrative space, the addition of crew quarters such as bunk rooms, bathrooms, and showers, and additional access points to improve response times and operational efficiency.

This location and facility will, without a doubt, allow the department to take its operations to the next level and will provide an excellent, functional firehouse to support the department and its members well into the future.

Continued Use of the Current Firehouse

While the department looks ahead to this new facility, we remain committed to maintaining our current firehouse as an important part of the Bittinger community. The existing firehouse will continue to be utilized as a community facility available for rentals and for local meetings, gatherings, and community events. In addition, the social hall at the current firehouse will remain a key venue for the department’s annual fundraising activities, which are vital to supporting our operations and volunteer members.

This approach allows the department to expand and modernize its emergency response capabilities while preserving a familiar and well-used community space for years to come.

This project would not have been possible without the strong support of our local leadership and the community that we serve.

This new firehouse represents a major investment in public safety and a lasting commitment to serving the Bittinger area. We look forward to sharing continued updates as renovations progress and this important project moves closer to completion.