Council approves guaranteed maximum price for new Fire Station 24

Tampa City Council approved a design–build guaranteed maximum price (GMP) agreement for Fire Station 24 during the regular session, a measure staff and council members characterized as a major step to improve response times in North Tampa.

Richard Mutterback of contract administration presented the GMP and said the city is ready to move forward after 16 months of planning and preparatory work. "We brought a GMP in front of you. Any questions?" Mutterback said, and Chief Tripp joined staff on the dais to mark the milestone.

Council members described the project as a long‑running priority to address high call volumes at nearby stations. Councilman Viera (who has championed the effort) called the approval a "big win" for the community and thanked staff and firefighters for their work. Supporters noted the station will complement earlier investments and relieve workload on the city's busiest units.

Council moved and approved the item by voice vote. Members asked that staff and the chief coordinate a timely groundbreaking and public notices for the community.

The GMP approval authorizes moving into the construction phase under the agreed guaranteed price; staff said they will return with schedule and procurement details as construction proceeds.