Austin’s EMS Station One

Places of Galindo: Austin’s EMS Station One Gets Major Upgrade: What It Means for First Responders—and You

By Madyson Russell

Austin-Travis County EMS Station One isn’t just any emergency station—it’s the first freestanding municipal EMS station in the United States, originally built in 1982. Now, after more than 40 years of service, the station that sits at the corner of South First and South Center Streets is getting a long-overdue upgrade that will make a big difference for both medics and the community they serve.

“This is a huge step up for the personnel in general, as well as the department that is Austin EMS,” said Captain Christa Stedman, Public Information Officer for Austin-Travis County EMS. “It’s not just about the building—it’s about creating a healthier, safer environment for the people who respond to emergencies day in and day out.”

A Healthier Space for EMS Workers
The renovation includes updated dorms with private sleeping quarters, expanded ambulance bays, a modern kitchen and day room as well as more reliable heating, cooling, and backup power.

The changes aren’t just practical—they’re scientifically informed, too.

“One of the things that came out of recent studies is redeveloping the way we alert personnel,” said Stedman. “The old alerting system would just blast your ears. The newer system uses a gradual volume increase and soft lighting, which significantly reduces cortisol spikes and supports long-term cardiovascular health.”

EMS personnel had been working from a cramped trailer on the property during construction, so the new space will be a welcome change. With room to house two ambulances and a commander, plus potential future resources like an advanced life support (ALS) squad, the station is better equipped to respond quickly and efficiently to neighborhood emergencies.

A Win for the Community
Upgraded EMS stations aren’t just about comfort for medics—they’re also about faster, more reliable emergency response for residents.

“When you call 9-1-1, you want the quickest response time that you can get,” said Stedman. “Having an ambulance in your neighborhood is ideal.”

The Austin-Travis County EMS is also invested in community education. The department will continue to offer free classes like CPR, Stop the Bleed, and Breathe Now (overdose response and Narcan training). Interested residents can sign up for public sessions or request a class for a group—details are available on the EMS website and social media.

A Look to the Future
In a thoughtful nod to its history and future, the team created a time capsule during the renovation, filled with letters from EMS staff and department leadership. The capsule is slated to be opened in 2051, on the agency’s 75th anniversary.

A grand reopening ceremony is planned in the coming months—open to the public and family-friendly, with activities and a formal ribbon cutting. “The community is absolutely invited,” said Stedman. “We’ll post all the details on our social media once the date is set.”

So whether you’re a longtime Galindo neighbor or new to South Austin, keep an eye out—EMS Station One is back, better than ever, and ready to serve.