By Ruth Ann Ruiz
The Post Newspaper Features Editor
The Galveston City Council has called for a bond election on November 4, 2025, to fund the replacement of Fire Station 2, located at 428 Church Street.
Originally built in the 1960s, Fire Station 2 has served the East End for more than five decades. Since then, the area’s population has grown significantly, UTMB has expanded with larger and taller buildings, and new residential developments have emerged east of Stewart Beach. This growth has created a greater demand for fire protection and emergency medical services.
The current station’s two short apparatus bays cannot accommodate a ladder truck, ambulance, and newer fire engines needed to serve the area. The building’s configuration also places sleeping quarters within 30 feet of engine exhaust, creating safety concerns for personnel.
The proposed new facility will be built on the same property with an extended footprint to the back alley and will feature:
- Larger apparatus bays to house a fire engine, ladder truck, ambulance, and brush truck
- Dormitory space for firefighters and EMS personnel
- Modern support facilities for equipment and staff
- Improved safety and functionality while maintaining a central, flood-safe location
If voters approve the bond, firefighters from Station 2 would temporarily operate out of Fire Station #1 during construction to ensure uninterrupted emergency response service.
The total project budget is estimated at approximately $10 million. In the next two months, the City will share conceptual designs for the new station so residents can preview the vision for the facility. The bond language reads:
“Calling A Bond Election To Be Held Within The City Of Galveston, Texas To Fund Certain Public Improvements For Fire Facilities; Making Provisions For The Conduct And The Giving Of Notice Of The Election; And Containing Other Provisions Relating Thereto
