What we reported Fire fighters at the city of Pearland have seen their call volumes skyrocket, and they expect to see more than 1,000 additional calls each year for the next five years. To meet demand, investments in new fire stations, equipment and personnel are being made. Friendswood is also growing its firefighting capacity.

The latest The city of Pearland opened two new fire stations in 2016. Fire Station No. 3 held its grand opening in January off FM 518 and Yost Boulevard. Fire Station No. 2 opened in June off Harkey and Fite roads. The Friendswood Volunteer Fire Department will relocate its headquarters to the new Fire Station No. 1, which broke ground in April at 1610 Whitaker Drive. Fire Station No. 4, off Woodlawn Drive, is undergoing a partial remodel and an addition of about 1,100 square feet.

What’s next Tentatively, the city of Pearland is planning for two additional fire stations over the next five years. Friendswood Fire Station No. 1 is slated for completion in May, and Fire Station No. 4 is slated for completion in March.

This story is one update from The January Issue. View the full list of 10 things to look for in 2017 here.