Jones County Breaks Ground on New EMS Station
Photo from Quality Aerial Solutions Facebook page.
TRENTON — Jones County officials and community members gathered on Tuesday for a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of a new EMS station, the first of two planned stations aimed at improving emergency response times in the county. The event marked a significant step in enhancing emergency services for residents.
“I had the honor of joining several local officials and community leaders at the groundbreaking ceremony for two new EMS substations in Jones County — one west of Trenton and another on the south side of Pollocksville — along with the renovation project of the Jones County Emergency Operations Center,” said Rep. Chris Humphrey. “These advancements will significantly enhance our emergency response capabilities, ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. I’m proud to support these projects, demonstrating our commitment to public safety across Eastern NC.”
Ryan Mills, the current Jones County Emergency Services Director, highlighted the significance of the new EMS station. "Jones County EMS operates out of one location in Trenton, but response times to the outer edges of the county can be 15 to 20 minutes," Mills said. "This new station will reduce those times and ensure faster emergency medical care."
The new EMS station, along with another planned facility in Pollocksville, will serve as a crucial hub for emergency response activities. These developments aim to address the county's growing need for efficient and rapid emergency services. "Our goal is to ensure that every resident of Jones County has access to swift and professional emergency medical care," Mills added.
Several speakers, including representatives from the USDA and the project's architect, emphasized the community's role in making the project a reality. "This facility is not just a building; it's a beacon of hope and security for the residents," said Pamela Richardson from USDA Rural Development.
Russell Pearlman, the project architect, expressed gratitude for the collaboration between various stakeholders. "Our goal was to produce safer facilities for the staff and faster response times for all citizens of Jones County," Pearlman said.
The project is supported by significant funding from federal and state sources. "We secured $1 million from USDA and $2 million from the state legislature," noted an official. "We are also hopeful for additional support from our legislators."
As the ceremony concluded, participants were invited to don hard hats and grab shovels for the symbolic groundbreaking. "This is a significant investment in the safety and well-being of our community," Mills remarked. "Thank you all for your support and dedication."
The new EMS station is expected to enhance emergency services and ensure timely assistance for all parts of Jones County, reinforcing the community's commitment to safety and preparedness.
