The Fire Department is undertaking a renovation of the galley kitchen located in the fire station bunker area. This kitchen has not been updated in approximately 25 years and is heavily used by up to eight live-in bunkers. The goal of the renovation is to improve functionality, efficiency, and flow within the space. The existing layout will be reconfigured into a more open-concept design, allowing for increased and more usable counter space. Upper cabinets will be removed to enhance openness, and the countertop will be extended to the end of the room. Several aging residential refrigerators will be replaced with commercial-grade refrigerators and freezers better suited to the level of daily use. Additionally, the wall separating the kitchen from the living room will be removed to improve overall flow and maximize the usability of the shared living space.
UPDATE 1.13.26
Quick Construction was able to begin the kitchen renovation in late December and has made excellent progress to date. Cabinetry has been ordered and is expected to be delivered within the next month. Installation of the tile flooring will occur soon, followed by painting of the walls. Once the tile and painting are completed, the new refrigeration units will be installed. Electrical and plumbing work are nearing completion.
During construction, bunker members have been temporarily relocated to the downstairs kitchen area. While this has required some adjustment, they have been accommodating and are looking forward to the completion of a more functional and usable kitchen and dining space.
UPDATE 2.5.2026
In conjunction with the kitchen reno another small project has been in the works at the Fire Hall as well.
For many years, the fire station’s Wi-Fi hardware and the Village of Cayuga Heights’ telephone servers have been housed in the same room as the station furnace. After evaluating the potential risks associated with locating critical communications equipment in a mechanical room — particularly in the event of a furnace malfunction, despite annual inspections — we determined that relocating this equipment to a safer, more stable environment was a prudent step.
A contractor was consulted to identify an appropriate new location and outline the necessary infrastructure improvements. To date, a 3-inch conduit has been installed to the new server rack and dedicated electrical service has been run to the cabinet. We are now awaiting the contractor’s return to complete the hardware relocation.
This upgrade will better protect our communications systems and strengthen the reliability and security of the Village’s critical infrastructure, ensuring we can continue to serve the community without interruption.
UPDATE 3.9.2026
Cabinets are almost done being installed, and we will be waiting for countertops to be templated later this week.
UPDATE 4.14.2026
The Cayuga Heights Fire Department is pleased to announce the completion of the bunker kitchen renovation project, a major upgrade to one of the most heavily used spaces in the fire station. The project transformed the former galley-style kitchen into a modern, open-concept layout designed to better support the needs of the department’s eight full-time bunkers who live at the station.
The new design significantly increases both countertop workspace and cabinet storage, improving functionality for meal preparation and day-to-day use. The upgraded layout also enhances flow between the kitchen and adjoining living areas, creating a more comfortable and efficient environment for members during their shifts.
As part of the renovation, the kitchen was outfitted with industrial-grade refrigerators and freezers, providing the capacity and durability needed for a high-demand, shared living space. In addition, new energy-efficient windows were installed, improving insulation, reducing energy costs, and bringing in more natural light to brighten the space.
This project represents a meaningful investment in the department’s personnel, ensuring that those who dedicate their time to serving the community have a safe, functional, and welcoming place to call home while on duty.
