New Orleans breaks ground on new fire department HQ New Orleans officials broke ground Thursday on a new $6.7 million headquarters for the city’s fire department as it moves from the French Quarter to a location next to Delgado Community College. A news release said it will be in a more centrally located place that provides easier access for staff, firemen and the general public. The project includes renovations to the old MTA Delgado building to house New Orleans Fire Department administrative headquarters, a training center and 24-hour NOFD Emergency Response Command Center. The first phase will include interior and exterior demolition, repair and replacement of site utility lines, removal and replacement of existing paving and sidewalks, improvements to drainage systems, exterior lighting replacement, placement of new structural foundations and selected removal and maintenance of existing landscaping. Phase 1 started in December and is expected to be complete in May.