Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)
First training facility inside SSJCFA’s nearly 200 square mile service area
VIDEO from the tour is available here
TRACY – Today, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) announced that he secured $2 million in federal funding for the South San Joaquin County Fire Authority (SSJCFA) for the first-ever Regional Fire Training Facility in south San Joaquin County. SSJCFA is one of the largest fire agencies in the state that does not have its own fire training facility inside its service area – which spans nearly 200 miles – forcing personnel to travel nearly 30 miles away.
“Communities like Tracy are some of the fastest growing anywhere in the state, and it’s insane that we’re sending our firefighters outside their service area because they can’t get their training here,” said Rep. Harder. “That’s why this investment is so exciting – it’s bringing a world-class training center to our backyards and will ultimately mean faster responses and safer communities for our families. I’m committed to making sure our brave first responders have everything they need to protect Valley communities.”
As a member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, Harder secured this $2 million investment through Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Community Project Funding. The funding will build on the nearly-completed training ground to bring more training rooms, props, and hardscape to the site. Once completed, the complex will not only keep personnel in their service area, but it will also support fire prevention and medical safety response while building educational partnerships across the Valley.
Harder was joined by SSJCFA Chief Randall Bradley and local first responders.
“The time we spend going to other training facilities takes away from the time we’re here to protect the community, so having these resources here makes a huge difference,” said Chief Randall Bradley, SSJCFA. “We’re going to be better prepared to respond to structure fires, wildfires, warehouse emergencies, and even railway problems. We’re grateful for Rep. Harder’s support in securing this funding and we’re excited about having these resources in Tracy and dedicated to our fire agency.”
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