On The Move: Relocating fire stations a good idea if it means city is better protected

Texarkana has grown over the years. More so than many would have believed.

You can drive down Interstate 30 towards Dallas and see dramatic flyovers, sprawling highway exchanges that you only ever used to see in much larger cities.

New hotels and restaurants abound. There are a lot more shopping alternatives. We have not only Texarkana College, but other venues for higher education as well.

Yes, the Twin Cities have grown. And sometimes the municipal governments have a challenge keeping up.

Take fire protection, for example. Many fire stations were built years ago when the two Texarkanas were much more concentrated. They were placed and spaced adequately to serve the community as it was.

But this is now. And needs have changed.

Earlier this week Texas-side City Manager John Whitson told the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce that three fire stations will be moving sometime in the future.

The downtown fire station near the Texarkana Public Library, the Summerhill Road station near Texas High School and the Richmond Road station north of I-30 will all be relocated to better meet the needs of the city's business and residential areas.

At first blush, this seems like a good idea.

We are sure some won't agree. Especially those who live or own businesses near the existing stations. We understand relocating those stations some distance away may lead to a concern their property might be adversely affected in the event of a fire.

The concern is understandable. Growth requires change and that never pleases everyone. But the city is faced with limited resources and officials must do what's best for all residents. It's one of those tough decisions they are there to make.

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