South Bend Fire Station 4

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The City of South Bend needed a new fire station that would not only serve the community’s emergency response needs but also reflect a commitment to sustainability, safety, and inclusivity. The project required a design that could significantly reduce energy and water use, support the health and well-being of firefighters, and adapt to the evolving demographics of the workforce—all while meeting the operational demands of a modern fire station.

Shive-Hattery partnered with the City to design Fire Station #4 as a high-performing, LEED Gold-certified facility—the first City-owned LEED-certified building in South Bend. The station reduces energy consumption by 40 percent compared to similar buildings, with an additional 7 percent savings from solar panels. Native landscaping eliminates the need for irrigation, and construction strategies prioritized recycled materials and waste diversion. The design also introduced individual sleeping quarters and Jack-and-Jill bathrooms to support privacy and gender inclusivity, while separating living and working zones to enhance firefighter safety.

Completed in 2018, South Bend Fire Station #4 sets a new standard for municipal facilities by combining sustainability, safety, and thoughtful design. It improves the daily lives of firefighters, reduces the City’s environmental footprint, and demonstrates leadership in green building practices. Shive-Hattery’s collaborative approach helped the City of South Bend deliver a facility that serves the community today and supports a more resilient future.