McAllen-  After more than 50 years in the old fire substation #3, the McAllen Fire Department proudly hosted a grand opening and uncoupling ceremony for their new substation located at 213 E. Dallas this morning. 

 The original fire station was built in 1960 with a total of 3,220 square feet. The entire building would fit in the apparatus bay alone at the new facility today.

“This fire substation will be a great avenue to keep our community safe,” said Fire Chief Rafael Balderas. “It is an ideal spot, located in the heart of a neighborhood. We took into consideration all the needs of modern firefighting during the design process, and we are excited to move into the new facility that has been a long time coming.”
  
The new station will boast a total of 7,435 square feet.  It will be manned on site by a lieutenant, a driver and one to two fire fighters.