The city of Gainesville and Gainesville Fire Rescue have agreed to switch its work schedule for employees in 2024, following a newly signed three-year contract with the local firefighter’s union.  

The new schedule, called a 24/72, will replace the current 24/48 system. The new schedule gives workers with a 24-hour shift three days off directly afterward—right now employees get two days off.  

Nick Gonzalez serves as president of the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 2157. He said some shifts last longer than 24 hours, sometimes cutting the employees’ time off in half. 

“The 24/72 schedule has generated a lot of excitement in the field and will help GFR become more competitive in recruitment and retention efforts,” Gonzalez said in a press release. “It really is a great investment in the health and well-being of our first responders and in the city we serve.”   

According to a city release, the new 24/72 model isn’t the norm, and Gainesville will be the first municipality in North Florida to make the switch. Gainesville Fire Rescue (GFR) hopes to implement the change around halfway through 2024.  

“This is a great day,” said GFR Fire Chief Joseph Dixon. “This new shift schedule demonstrates the continued commitment of our city leaders to our personnel and to the community at large.”