New Kent Fire Station #5 dedicated, begins service in community

New Kent Fire Station #5, based in Talleysville, is now operating within the county.

Andre' Jones photos

Making a move to ensure the safety of citizens and travelers in the county, New Kent County Fire Station #5 held its grand ceremony Friday morning.

More than 300 people that included dignitaries, fire and rescue representatives from neighboring jurisdiction, and former firefighters attended the gathering to commemorate the festivities.

“This is public safety and this fire station represents 23,000 people who live in New Kent,” said District 2 and New Kent Board of Supervisors Chairman Tommy Tiller. “This projected started two years ago and we broke ground on this last year and now, here we are here today.”

The $2.5 million project constructed by Henderson Incorporated consists of 9,900 square feet on four acres of land is located at 7324 Vineyards Parkway in the Talleysville area of the county, adjacent to New Kent’s Visitor Center. The staff that will be housed in Station #5 includes one captain, one lieutenant, and five firefighters/EMTs. Three bays at the station will be the home of a fire engine, a quint, and a medical ambulance.

“This journey was a collaborative effort,” said Leslie Henderson Schultz, President of Henderson Incorporated. “This is a journey and I can’t see what’s yet to come.”

The fire station began running calls on Sept. 27. Over that one-week frame, the station has responded to approximately 30 calls for service.

New Kent Fire Chief Rick Opett expressed gratitude and thanks to all entities for their effort and hard work in helping the station become a reality.

“Welcome to our community and welcome to our fire station,” he said. “Back when the fire and rescue department was established in 1951, all hands were needed back then to make public safety happen. People literally laid down the foundation with bricks and masonry.

“Now, it takes the same support from the same groups in the community to see them involved in a project like this,” the fire chief added. “This station has already proven it has made a difference. And we can pull more resources than ever before.”

Along with running calls, the facility will also be able to host meetings. Inside the firehouse include community spaces, a board room, cooking facilities, and offices.

In conclusion, Opett thanked several entities and pinpointed to his excitement to be able to continue supporting the community.

“This is one of those days when it’s good to be a fire chief,” he said. “Anytime you can expand services to your community, it’s phenomenal.”

New Kent Firefighters and EMTs take part in the hose uncoupling ceremony that signifies the station’s “ribbon cutting.”