In a recent special city council meeting held on March 15, 2025, in Conway, Arkansas, city officials discussed pressing needs for the local fire department, highlighting significant equipment upgrades and infrastructure challenges that could impact community safety.

One of the primary concerns raised was the urgent need to replace aging fire apparatus. The fire chief reported that several engines and aerial trucks, some dating back to 2011 and 2013, are nearing the end of their operational lifespan. Specifically, Engine 2 is set for replacement this year, while other vehicles will soon follow. The chief emphasized that if funding were available today, new equipment would still be 16 to 17 years old by the time it arrives, underscoring the critical nature of these upgrades.

The department is currently seeking a grant that could provide up to $1 million to assist with these costs, which are estimated to total around $1.5 million for necessary replacements. The chief noted that the city has approximately 140 air packs that will need to be replaced within the next four years, as they will no longer meet safety standards. The council discussed the possibility of phasing the purchases over three years to manage costs effectively.

In addition to equipment needs, the fire chief pointed out that the city's growth, particularly in the southwest area, is affecting response times. While the average response time is currently 3 minutes and 27 seconds, some areas, like the airport, can take up to 12 minutes to reach. This has prompted discussions about establishing a new fire station to improve service coverage and response efficiency.

The meeting also touched on space constraints at both the fire and police departments, with officials acknowledging that current facilities are inadequate to meet the demands of a growing population. The mayor has indicated that addressing these space issues will be a priority moving forward.

As Conway continues to expand, the discussions from this meeting highlight the city's commitment to ensuring public safety through necessary upgrades and infrastructure improvements. The outcomes of the grant application and future planning will be crucial in addressing these community needs.