In a decisive move to strengthen national emergency response infrastructure, Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander today led a high-level site visit to Torrib Trace, Princes Town, the proposed location for the new Princes Town Fire Station.
Accompanied by Permanent Secretary Mr. Videsh Maharaj and senior officials from the Property and Real Estate Division of the Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence, the Land Settlement Agency, and the National Agriculture Marketing and Development Corporation (NAMDEVCO), the visit underscores the Government’s urgent commitment to restoring and enhancing fire and emergency services in the southern region, following the closure of the former Princes Town Fire Station in 2024.
The former station, which had served the community for over 75 years, was declared structurally unsafe by the Architectural and Design Engineering Branch of the Ministry of Works and Transport. The building, having reached the end of its functional lifespan, was recommended for immediate demolition and reconstruction.
In the interim, the Ministry is evaluating an existing building at Torrib Trace, which will be outfitted to serve as both a temporary operational fire station and a training facility for fire officers in the southern division. This dual purpose approach is part of a broader national strategy to expand the capacity and readiness of the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service.
“This is not just about replacing bricks and mortar,” said Minister Alexander during the visit. “This is about rapidly restoring critical fire and emergency services to the Princes Town area while building a stronger; more resilient system. The facility at Torrib Trace will serve our immediate operational needs and help build long-term capacity through ongoing training and development.”
The visit comes amid growing concerns over the state of emergency infrastructure nationwide, highlighted by the temporary closure of the San Juan Fire Station just yesterday due to ceiling damage. These developments have reinforced the Ministry’s resolve to act swiftly and strategically.
To this end, the Ministry of Homeland Security will also undertake a comprehensive audit of all fire stations and emergency facilities across the country, with a focus on structural integrity, safety, and serviceability. This initiative will be accompanied by the implementation of a national routine maintenance programme to ensure that fire stations remain functional, compliant, and fit for duty.
“These upgrades are critical not only to protect the lives and safety of our citizens, but to safeguard the well-being of the brave men and women who serve,” Minister Alexander emphasised. “We are building for the future: modern facilities, equipped with advanced resources and backed by proactive maintenance and oversight.“
The Ministry is working closely with the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service, and other key partners to expedite the outfitting of the Torrib Trace site and advance the long-term redevelopment of a permanent fire station in Princes Town.
Further information on timelines, facility specifications, and the national fire station modernisation programme will be shared in the coming weeks.
