Botetourt County officials are marking a significant milestone in public safety with a groundbreaking ceremony slated for this Thursday, August 28 at the Read Mountain Fire & Rescue Department in Roanoke. This event celebrates the start of construction on a new Emergency Communications Center (ECC), a dedicated radio communications shop, and the expansion of the existing Fire & EMS station.
After extensive planning and efforts—like the 2024 initiative to upgrade to a new emergency communications radio system—county leaders concluded that the current 9-1-1 dispatch center in Fincastle no longer fulfills the technological, spatial, or operational needs of the community. The new facility is designed to deliver strong, future-ready infrastructure for emergency communications.
Realized through the coordinated efforts of Botetourt County government, the Sheriff’s Office, the Emergency Communications Systems manager, and the Fire & EMS Department, the project is backed by a construction contract awarded in July to MB Contractors by the Botetourt County Board of Supervisors.
Once completed, the upgraded facility will include a state-of-the-art ECC equipped with modern communications technology, a separate radio shop to support equipment maintenance and operations, and expanded living quarters and operational space for Fire & EMS personnel.
The public is invited to join the ceremony on Thursday, August 28 at 10 a.m., at 43 East Park Drive, Roanoke, with parking available at Orchard Hills Church (6032 Cloverdale Road, Roanoke).
This project comes on the heels of several other strategic investments by Botetourt Fire & EMS to modernize and strengthen emergency response. In 2024, the county completed a strategic plan outlining goals for service improvement, communication enhancement, and community risk reduction.
Earlier that same year, work began on a cutting-edge encrypted public radio system, including construction of new communications towers to expand secure coverage throughout the county.
To address ongoing volunteer shortages, Fire & EMS launched a pay-per-call incentive program this summer, encouraging volunteer staffing by compensating them per emergency incident and offering bonuses for certifications and participation.
By centralizing dispatch, upgrading technologies, and expanding living and training facilities, the county hopes positioning its Fire & EMS capabilities will ensure long-term effectiveness throughout the county and beyond.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
