The approval comes three years after a referendum to build the new station and expand the town hall was voted down.

The town says the current fire station had no more room left.

 

The town says that's important as the area continues to grow. Greenville says the current station will still be put to use once the fire department relocates

The design will also allow the station to be used as a staging area during hurricanes.  

"We're trying to think ahead and make sure that if we build something, we can utilize it long-term as the growth in the south end of Washington County is definitely coming," Greenhead Fire Department Chief Jim Palmer said.

Orange County will use the money to buy 132 self-contained breathing apparatuses with spare cylinders, as well as 66 face pieces, according to a news release from Virginia Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine.

The department has 37 staff members and operates 24/7, according to its website.