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# Fire service changes reshape emergency response in New Tampa
- URL: https://tampa-bay-disaster-preparedness-news.ghost.io/fire-service-changes-reshape-emergency-response-in-new-tampa/
- Published: 2026-07-17T17:32:45.000Z
- Updated: 2026-07-17T17:32:45.000Z
- Description: Hillsborough County will shift fire protection for parts of New Tampa to Pasco County Fire Rescue on Oct. 1 to reduce costs while Tampa moves forward with a new $23.8 million Fire Station 24.
- Author: Chris Thomas
- Tags: extreme-heat, News, wildfires, wildfire smoke

Hillsborough County will switch fire protection for several New Tampa area communities from Tampa Fire Rescue to Pasco County Fire Rescue on **Oct. 1**, citing lower costs and comparable response coverage.

**By the numbers:**

- Annual contract cost with Pasco: **$250,000**
- Projected cost under Tampa agreement by 2027: **Nearly $890,000**
- Hillsborough also will lease space at Pasco Fire Station 26 for a county ambulance, allowing Hillsborough to continue transporting patients.

County officials said response times will be closely monitored after the transition. Mutual aid agreements between neighboring departments will remain in place.

**Fire station investment moves ahead**

Tampa City Council is expected to approve a **$17.4 million** construction contract for the new **$23.8 million Fire Station 24** near Greco Park. The four bay station is scheduled for completion in September 2027 and is part of more than **$116 million** in planned fire rescue facility upgrades.

**Fire safety reminder**

Tampa Fire Rescue is urging residents to review home fire safety after a viral video showed a dog accidentally starting a deadly house fire. Fire officials recommend keeping combustible items away from stovetops, maintaining working smoke alarms and practicing a family escape plan.