HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – After years of planning, construction and anticipation, Hopkinsville officials cut the ribbon on Nov. 20 for the long-awaited Fire Station 5, the first new fire station in the city since 1999. The modern, multi-million-dollar facility promises to dramatically improve emergency response and transform first responder training across the region.

“May every alarm answered from here bring help where it’s needed most,” said Fire Chief Steve Futrell during Friday’s ceremony. “Today marks, not just the opening for a new fire station, but the beginning of a new chapter. Once built on progress, readiness, and service.”

Deputy Chief of Fire Operations Bill Pyle, who has been closely involved with the project since the groundbreaking, emphasized that the station was designed with longevity in mind. “It was also designed and constructed with foresight for the future. Ensuring it will continue to meet the needs of our department for years to come,” he said. “Every detail was made with the safety, efficiency, service, and the needs of future generations in mind.”

With expanded apparatus bays, designated decontamination zones and classrooms built for hands-on training, the facility will directly strengthen HFD operations. It also has intentional quality of life features like a large kitchen, lounge area with recliners, separate living quarters, and a full-sized gym. Outdoor training towers and a helicopter pad are still under construction.

Words of praise from officials and fire chief

“As these men and women run into harm’s way while the rest of us should be running away from it, our community gets safer and stronger,” said State Senator Craig Richardson, highlighting the importance of supporting first responders.

Hopkinsville Mayor J.R. Knight added that the new station will significantly improve service for neighborhoods that previously saw longer wait times. Knight also framed the project as an investment into the quality of life of Christian County residents.

“For years, neighborhoods on this side of town have continued to grow. And with growth comes responsibility,” said Futrell. “Station 5 is designed to provide faster response times, increase protection for life and property, and the peace of mind for these citizens.”

He added that the facility is designed to support the trainees and first responders from across the region and noted that it has the infrastructure to continue operating in the worst circumstances.

“Even during severe weather or infrastructure failures, when everything else goes dark, this center will keep our community connected and protected,” he said. Futrell credited Pyle for helping drive the project to completion. “His leadership, persistence, and passion made this project possible,” he said.

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