In a recent statement, Corpus Christi Fire Chief Brandon Wade expressed his appreciation for the strong backing from the city council. Their support, he emphasized, plays a critical role in ensuring that the fire department can continue hiring more firefighters and providing them with the necessary tools and equipment to perform their duties efficiently. The city council’s involvement goes beyond just financial support. They actively participate in decision-making, ensuring that the upgrades align with the city’s safety goals and the fire department’s needs.
Ongoing Upgrades to Fire Stations
Wade emphasized the city’s commitment to modernizing outdated fire stations, which is a long overdue move. He noted that many fire stations around town are being replaced because they are too old and worn out to meet the department’s demands.
One of the most significant upcoming projects involves constructing the new Fire Station 3 on Morgan Avenue, scheduled for completion by spring 2025. Strategically located to serve a densely populated area, this new station will significantly reduce response times for nearby residents. Fire Station 8 on Kostoryz Road will be replaced with a new facility just down the street at Kostoryz and McArdle, with construction expected to begin soon. Fire Station 10 will also undergo improvements, with a new structure planned near its current location at Horne Road and Greenwood Drive.
Enhancing Response Times
Chief Wade also discussed the importance of maintaining rapid response times, a critical aspect of the department’s service. “We have a response time goal of making 90 percent, roughly, of our incidents within eight minutes,” Wade said. He explained that this goal is achievable, in large part, due to the strategically located firehouses across the city. These ongoing upgrades to the facilities will help ensure consistent response times.
New Equipment for the Department
Aside from upgrading facilities, the fire department is also receiving new equipment. Chief Wade expressed his excitement about adding three new ambulances and a fire engine pumper, which will help modernize the emergency vehicle fleet. These new assets are vital in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of the department’s operations. The new ambulances, for instance, feature state-of-the-art medical equipment, allowing firefighters to provide better patient care during emergency medical responses. Meanwhile, the fire engine pumper delivers high-pressure water to extinguish fires, enhancing the department’s firefighting capabilities.
Additionally, the battalion chiefs will soon be equipped with new Ford F150s. These vehicles, outfitted with updated technology, will enhance the management of fire scenes. According to Wade, the cars are already in the city and are being fitted with radios, computer equipment, and other essential tools.
Drones for Emergency Response
One of the standout features of the new command vehicles is the addition of a decked truck bed that will serve as a rollout drone operation center. These drones will provide real-time information during emergency responses, improving the department’s ability to manage fires and other critical incidents effectively.
Councilman Jim Klein’s Perspective
Councilman Jim Klein also weighed in on the support for the fire department. While he acknowledged the progress made regarding workforce and equipment, he believes more can be done. Specifically, Klein suggested that the city council focus on retirement pensions for firefighters.
“We gave them a bump in retirement pay last year,” Klein noted, adding that it was the first increase since 2004. However, he urges the city to revisit this issue next year to account for inflation and ensure that firefighters receive adequate rewards for their service.
As Chief Wade noted, the continued support from the city council is essential for the fire department to maintain its high service standards. As Corpus Christi modernizes its fire stations, upgrades its equipment, and works toward improving firefighter benefits, the city remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.