News

New Fire Station 1 'prioritizes the safety of city residents and visitors'

By Lightning Reports, Published: September 21, 2024

Hendersonville City Council members, the public, fire administrators and firefighters celebrated the grand opening of Fire Station 1 with a ribbon-cutting and a traditional push-in of rolling stock.

The opening of the new station at Five Points marks a significant advance in the city's emergency response capabilities. 

“The construction of this fire station represents the hard work and dedication of many people who have prioritized the safety of Hendersonville residents and visitors,” Hendersonville Fire Chief D. James Miller said. “From City Council’s vision and ongoing support to the tireless professionalism of the men and women of this department, I thank them for their commitment which makes the construction of a state-of-the-art facility like this possible.” 

The ceremony commenced with a welcome from City Manager John Connet, who introduced Fire Capt. Cameron Womack for an invocation. City Budget & Evaluation Director Adam Murr highlighted the collaborative efforts that made the new station possible. Miller stessed the importance of service to the growing Hendersonville community and reflected on the proud history of a department that has faithfully served since 1892. 

Mayor Barbara Volk, joined by City Council members, presented resolutions of appreciation to partnering organizations that provided temporary homes for engine companies, staff and equipment while the new station was under construction. Thanks to the collaboration of Henderson County, Henderson County Emergency Management, Henderson County Rescue Squad, Valley Hill Fire & Rescue, Dana Fire & Rescue, Green River Fire & Rescue and Carolina Village, the city was able to provide uninterrupted service of the highest level while Station 1 was rebuilt.  

In addition to a typical ribbon-cutting to celebrate the occasion, the event featured a hose uncoupling, followed by a traditional fire-service push-in ceremony — firefighters pushing engine and tower apparatuses into the new bays. 

Following the ceremony, attendees were invited to tour the state-of-the-art facility. Designed by ADW Architects and built by EDIFICE Construction, Station 1 spans 19,745 square feet and houses three companies and their battalion chiefs, along with living quarters, administrative offices and training room. Sustainability features include photovoltaic solar panels, a rainwater harvesting system and permeable pavers. Air quality/apparatus exhaust venting improvements, a decontamination area and built-in equipment for rescue training also were incorporated into the station's design for better protection and training firefighters.