The funding is through the 2021 bond referendum.
PLANO, Texas — When you see the world through a child’s eyes, everything seems a little safer.
That’s how it felt for 4-year-old Kenny and his 2-year-old brother, Jon, as they explored the newly renovated Plano Fire Station 5.
Their mother, Jeanette Golden, brought them out to meet the people who could one day save their lives.
“It’s funny, you don’t appreciate it until you’re the one who needs the help,” Golden said.
And on Wednesday, the city officially reopened Fire Station 5, after a $12 million renovation and expansion funded through the 2021 bond referendum.
The overhaul brings big upgrades, including more space for emergency vehicles, a new ambulance, additional bunks for firefighters, and even a built-in storm shelter, all designed to meet the growing needs of a rapidly expanding city.
“This is the bunk room,” firefighter Jeff Peters explained during a tour. “We’ll have gear that’s staged here.”
For Peters, one of the station’s newer members, this is now home base. But Station 5 will serve as a regional response unit that assists in neighboring cities like McKinney and Allen.
“The hazmat, we’re a regional response, and that keeps us different. A little bit busier,” said Peters.
Over the past decade, Plano Fire Rescue says service calls have increased by roughly 50%. City officials say that growth, combined with new development and population increases, made the renovation essential to keep up with demand.
The expansion also prepares crews for their rigorous 24/72 shift schedule, which won’t take effect until 2029.
“We have a standard that’s set,” said Peters. “To maintain the highest standard, we need to have the best stuff.”