Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University (Jax State) and the City of Jacksonville have reached a significant milestone in their ongoing partnership with the signing of a land agreement on Tuesday morning. The agreement, signed by Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr., and Jacksonville Mayor Johnny L. Smith, marks the beginning of construction for a new fire station at the corner of Pelham Rd N and 11th St NW. The signing ceremony was held at the newly opened Jacksonville City Hall.
The new fire station, which will replace the current Fire Station No. 2 at 506 Chinabee Ave SE, will provide the Jacksonville Fire Department with a modern, spacious facility. This upgrade is expected to significantly enhance the department’s ability to serve both the campus and the broader community, ensuring a safer environment for all residents.
Dr. Killingsworth emphasized the mutual benefits of the agreement, stating, “This partnership is a testament to the strong relationship between Jacksonville State University and the City of Jacksonville. The new fire station will not only improve response times for our campus community but also contribute to the overall safety and well-being of the city. We are excited about the positive impact this will have on our campus and the city as a whole.”
Strategically located within the current campus footprint, the new fire station is anticipated to reduce emergency response times to Jax State. Its placement will also help alleviate traffic congestion in the northern part of the city, minimizing the need for emergency vehicles to navigate through the square and campus as frequently. Additionally, the station will house the city’s largest engine, which is best equipped to service facilities closer to campus, including the Houston Cole Library.
“The new station will cut down our response times to the north side of the city, helping us cover the residential areas there and the campus,” said Jacksonville Fire Chief Keith Kadle. “It will be a better distribution of our assets and create an evenly distributed overlap in our service area.”
City leaders are hopeful that construction will be completed within 18 months. This collaboration highlights the shared commitment of Jax State and the City of Jacksonville to enhancing public safety and improving the quality of life for residents and the university community alike.
