Granger Fire Station: A Community's Drive Toward Safety

As the population of the Granger and Hunter areas rapidly expanded in the 1950s and early 1960s, so too did the community's concern for adequate emergency services. In particular, fire protection was a growing priority. What began as a hopeful idea during park fundraising efforts in the early 1950s would take more than a decade of planning and collaboration to become reality. Their willingness to invest in and share that land for the good of the entire community remains a lasting example of selfless civic spirit

A Decade and More: The Community That Wouldn’t Quit

The Long Road to Fire Protection: The Bartons from the Lions Club, Granger-Hunter Council & Dave Lingard and their committee members

The Granger Fire Station, which officially opened in May 1963, was the result of more than 13 years of community advocacy and grassroots determination. As early as 1950, the Granger Lions Club recognized the urgent need for better fire protection in the area. In November 1951, the Granger Lions Club hosted a fundraiser dance to help purchase land for a community park—intended not only as a recreational space but also as the future site of a fire station. Through calendar sales, dances, and widespread public outreach, they championed a broader vision: providing safety, services, and gathering spaces for a growing population. While the fire station was ultimately built elsewhere, the land they secured became home to a beloved park and baseball field. Their willingness to invest in and share that land for the good of the entire community remains a lasting example of selfless civic spirit

That vision was carried forward through the 1950s and into the 1960s by the Granger-Hunter Town Council, a volunteer civic body formed to represent local needs. Council member Dave Lingard was particularly instrumental in pushing the fire station project forward. In December 1960, he reported to the community that discussions were ongoing with County Fire Chief Frank P. Jones, though challenges like funding and proper placement still remained.

Early Planning and Land Acquisition

By May 1961, the dream began to materialize. Salt Lake County officially acquired a 100' x 150' parcel on Beaver Street (near 3500 South and 3030 West) in the newly developing Hillsdale subdivision. The Granger-Hunter Town Council, which had been advocating for a station for months, was pleased with the progress and county cooperation.

Architect Leonard Harmon was selected to design the station. The planned 2,600-square-foot facility would feature a five-man bunking area, engine garage, locker rooms, showers, kitchen, and a dayroom. Harmon ensured the building had a neighborhood-friendly design—residential in appearance, but fully functional as a fire station.

Prioritization and Preparation

Granger-Hunter Council, with voices at the forefront, exemplified grassroots leadership. Their work ensured that Granger’s transformation from a rural outpost to a suburban community included the safety, structure, and civic improvements its residents deserved. With the Granger-Hunter Council’s leadership, the council worked persistently to secure county support. In May 1961, the efforts paid off when Salt Lake County acquired a lot in the new Hillsdale subdivision on Beaver Street—eventually becoming the site of the Granger Fire Station. Mr Lingard and his fellow council members were proud of the progress, especially as it meant better protection for a rapidly growing residential area.

In November 1961, Fire Chief Frank P. Jones informed the Granger-Hunter Council that the area was “number one or two in line” for a new station, pending final placement and funding. The Granger-Hunter Council had been encouraging the county to build a station in the area for several years. Each of their meetings included finding a Firestation location & funding a Firestation. This announcement marked the County’s recognition of Granger’s urgent need due to rapid population growth.

By March 1963, construction was nearly complete, and plans were underway for 24/7 staffing, with one full-time fireman on duty and ten volunteers to be trained from within the community. Civil service exams were being administered to select permanent personnel.

Official Opening: May 13, 1963

The Granger Fire Station officially opened its doors on May 13, 1963, becoming Salt Lake County’s 11th fire station. Located at 3453 South Beaver Street, the station was initially staffed by six full-time firemen, with additional local volunteers to follow. The station immediately helped ease the burden on the Kearns Fire Department, which had previously covered a wide area extending from 3300 South to the Point of the Mountain.

The Granger station was designed to improve response time by operating on a proximity-based dispatch model: instead of working within rigid boundaries, the nearest available unit would respond to emergencies, ensuring faster and more effective service.

Sheriff’s Substation

Their vision wasn’t just for fire protection—it also included space for a Salt Lake County Sheriff’s substation, making it a true hub for public safety.