Photos by Matt de Simone
By Matt de Simone
Botetourt County officials gathered last Thursday to break ground on a new Emergency Communications Center, radio shop, and expanded Fire & EMS facilities at Read Mountain Fire & Rescue Station just off Cloverdale Road. The project represents a major investment in public safety, aiming to strengthen emergency response for the county’s growing population.
Speakers at the ceremony included Sheriff Matt Ward, County Administrator Gary Larrowe, Board of Supervisors Chair Amy White, and Fire & EMS Chief Jason Ferguson, each highlighting how the project will improve efficiency, coordination, and readiness. Ferguson described the day as a monumental moment, while county leaders emphasized the importance of collaboration in bringing the vision to life.
Ferguson also spoke about the synergy that was involved in this project, stating, “The power is in the people working together for the best outcome for this project and I truly believe that that’s where we are because, ultimately, we wouldn’t be sitting here and talking about this today if we didn’t have that synergistical approach.”
The new Emergency Communications Center will double the number of call stations from four to eight, giving dispatchers more space and modern technology to handle rising demand. A new radio shop will support maintenance and testing of communications equipment, while the Fire & EMS expansion will add sleeping quarters, a kitchen, decontamination areas, and other needed facilities to replace outdated open-bay bunking. The existing 911 center in Fincastle will continue to serve as a backup to ensure redundancy.
With an estimated cost of $11.7 million, construction is now underway and expected to be completed in 2026 or early 2027. County officials say the project will provide first responders with the tools and space they need to serve the community effectively for years to come.
Graphic courtesy of Botetourt Co.
