The City of Hendersonville celebrated the grand opening of Fire Station 1 with a ceremony that brought together city officials, fire department personnel, partnering organizations, and community members. The event, held on Friday, Sept. 20, at the new station located at 851 North Main Street, marked a significant milestone in enhancing 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,” said Hendersonville Fire Chief D. James Miller. “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 Captain Cameron Womack for an invocation. Budget & Evaluation Director Adam Murr followed with remarks, highlighting the collaborative efforts that made the new station possible. Chief D. James Miller then addressed the attendees, reflecting on the station’s importance to the growing Hendersonville community and the proud history of the department which has faithfully served since 1892.
Mayor Barbara Volk, joined by City Council members, presented resolutions of appreciation to partnering organizations which 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 Hendersonville Fire Department was able to provide uninterrupted service of the highest level while Station 1 was rebuilt.
Instead of a typical ribbon-cutting to unveil the building, the event featured a hose uncoupling, followed by a traditional fire-service push-in ceremony. Attendees witnessed the new engine and tower apparatuses being ceremonially pushed into the station bays by firefighters.
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 a Fire Department training room. Sustainability features include photovoltaic solar panels, a rainwater harvesting system, and permeable pavers for stormwater management. Air quality/apparatus exhaust venting improvements, a decontamination area, and built-in equipment for rescue training were incorporated into the station’s design to better protect and train firefighters.
The Hendersonville Fire Department appreciates all the community members who joined them in celebrating Fire Station 1.
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