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Jacksonville State University and the City of Jacksonville Announce Land Agreement for New Fire Station

by Josh Underwood

JACKSONVILLE (08/20/2024) — Jacksonville State University (Jax State) and the City of Jacksonville have reached a significant milestone in their longstanding 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, paves the way for constructing a new fire station on the corner of Pelham Rd N and 11th St NW. The signing ceremony took place at the newly opened Jacksonville City Hall.

The new fire station, set to 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 will significantly enhance the department's ability to serve the campus and the community, ensuring a safer and more secure environment for all residents.

Dr. Killingsworth underscored 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."

The strategic location of the new fire station within the current campus footprint is expected to reduce response times to Jax State. Additionally, the new station's placement will 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. It would also allow the city to house its largest engine, which is best equipped to service facilities closer to campus and taller structures, including 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 hope to see construction finish in as little as 18 months. This collaboration underscores the shared commitment of Jax State and the City of Jacksonville to enhance public safety and improve the quality of life for residents and the university community alike.

About Jacksonville State University

Founded in 1883 as a state teachers college, Jacksonville State University has grown from humble beginnings into the Alabama regional university with the highest percentage of accredited programs. Located in the Appalachian foothills midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, Jax State offers more than 150 courses of study, including over 40 online programs, at the undergraduate and graduate level. To learn more, visit www.jsu.edu, call 1-800-231-JAX1 or e-mail jaxfacts@jsu.edu.

About the City of Jacksonville

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians, Jacksonville is known for its rich history, educational excellence and commitment to an active lifestyle. The city is home to Jacksonville State University and first-rate public and private schools, offering a dynamic educational environment. The city also hosts dozens of parks and recreational facilities, with easy parking and access to the Chief Ladiga Trail, over 30 miles of scenic biking and hiking path running all the way to the Georgia state line. Visit jacksonville-al.org to see what Jacksonville has to offer.

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