LOUISVILLE, Ky. --
Two fire departments in Louisville are now one.
On Monday, Mayor Greg Fischer made the merger between Dixie Suburban Fire Protection District and Lake Dreamland Fire Department official.
Fischer said public protection is his top priority and this merger is a win-win for that.
During a news conference, Fischer said merging the two departments will result in increased manpower, as firefighters from the all-volunteer Dixie Suburban join with Lake Dreamland -- creating a team of more than 40 strong.
He added the merger will increase resources by combining firefighting equipment and it will also decrease response time for the community.
Lake Dreamland's fire chief said money saved by the merger can be used for better equipment and the hiring of additional firefighters, if needed.
Dixie Suburban firefighters currently respond to calls alongside Lake Dreamland.
The department's current station will become Lake Dreamland's third fire station.
Lake Dreamland's fire district currently covers 17 1/2 square miles.
Dixie Suburban covers 1 1/2 square miles.
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