The Bastrop Fire Department is firming up its plan to transform its downtown fire station into an overnight lodge for its new cast of around-the-clock firefighters.
Beginning on Feb. 1, the Bastrop Fire Department became a 24-hour operation after this fiscal year's budget funded an overnight shift for part-time firefighters at the downtown station.
"It's a huge step for us," said Bastrop Fire Chief Andres Rosales.
However, both of the department's stations — located downtown and near Tahitian Village — lack the accommodations for overnight stays, such as showers and sleeping rooms.
Upgrades to accommodate overnight stays at the downtown station were estimated to cost $65,000. But because Fire Department staff and volunteers will be putting in most of the labor, the total cost was reduced significantly, officials said.