Phoenix Fire Department

Depending on the nature of the rescue, there could be anywhere between 15 to 25 personnel on scene.

Phoenix leaders approved $7.8 million to add 58 firefighter positions during Wednesday’s City Council meeting.

“Included in this are 24 positions for Fire Station #62, which will break ground very soon. It’s in District 7 and will service the Estrella region,” said District 7 Councilwoman Yassamin Ansari.

The funding will also cover seven new firefighters at Sky Harbor Airport and 27 positions that have been temporarily funded through a federal grant.

“As this city grows we need to ensure our public safety services are adequately growing,” said Councilwoman Ann O’Brien who chairs the public safety subcommittee.

The Fire Department says it needs more people and stations to keep up with the city’s population growth and call volumes.

Next week, the City Council will consider a bond program that includes $83 million to build one new fire station and replace and upgrade three others. If leaders approve the proposal, the bond program will go before voters in November 2023.