White County Opens New Fire Station 9, Expanding Emergency Response Capabilities

White County officials, first responders, and community members gathered Thursday, June 11, at 10:00 a.m. for a celebration of the opening of the county's newest public safety facility, Fire Station 9, located on Sonny's Circle off Duncan Bridge Road in . Sautee Nacoochee.

The new station, now fully operational, represents a significant investment in public safety and emergency preparedness for residents living in and around the Mount Yonah area.

Designed as a state-of-the-art facility, the

fire station features three apparatus bays capable of housing a ladder truck and additional emergency response vehicles. Officials say the new location will allow White County Emergency Services to improve response times and expand coverage throughout one of the county's busiest outdoor recreation areas.

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, White County Public Safety Director David Murphy thanked county leadership and residents for their support in bringing the project to completion.

Murphy explained that Fire Station 9 will operate around the clock, providing emergency services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The station will be staffed by firefighters who are also EMT Basic certified. The firefighters are required to have mountain rescue and rope rescue certifications because they will be the first unit responding to emergencies on Mount Yonah.

Given the popularity of Mount Yonah among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, officials say having highly trained personnel stationed nearby will enhance the county's ability to respond quickly to challenging rescue situations.

White County Commission Chairman Travis Turner highlighted the project's financial responsibility during his remarks, noting the station was funded entirely through Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) revenues.

Turner indicated that the cost of construction was approximately $1.724 million, generated by SPLOST dollars, saved over time. Because of this White County was able to build this facility debt-free. Turner said, "From the moment these doors opened, taxpayers began receiving a return on their investment through enhanced public safety services."

Turner also thanked fellow commissioners, county staff, emergency personnel, and construction partners who played a role in making the project a reality.

County officials reported that at least two fully trained emergency personnel will be assigned to Fire Station 9 at all times, ensuring a rapid response to fires, medical emergencies, and specialized rescue calls throughout the area.

The opening of Fire Station 9 marks another step in White County's ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency services and provide enhanced protection for residents and visitors alike.