City Council approves $13.5M budget for new fire and police stations

In the heart of Aransas Pass, city officials gathered under the bright lights of the council chamber to discuss a significant milestone in local infrastructure development. The meeting on March 3, 2025, centered around the approval of a guaranteed maximum price for a dual public safety project that has been in the works since February 2024.

The proposed project includes the construction of a new fire station and a police department, with a total estimated cost of $13,509,563. The fire station alone is projected to cost $9,626,161, which includes an alternate for additional parking on Seventh Street. Meanwhile, the police department's construction is estimated at $3,883,402, factoring in alternates for a roof system and code compliance.

City officials detailed the financial breakdown, emphasizing that the project would be funded through a bond ordinance approved last year. The fire station's construction cost stands at $9,594,972, while the police department's base cost is $3,634,272. Additional allowances for furniture, fixtures, and equipment, as well as architectural and engineering fees, bring the total project costs to $15,134,163.

As the council deliberated, they noted that approving the maximum price would leave a balance of $865,008.37 from the initial $16 million bond, which has also accrued interest. This financial cushion is crucial for ensuring that the project remains on track and within budget.

The discussions highlighted the city's commitment to enhancing public safety infrastructure, a move that promises to benefit the community for years to come. As the council prepares to vote on this significant investment, residents are left to ponder the future of their city and the improvements that lie ahead.