Alexander County Commissioners, Senator Eddie Settle, county staff, and others participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the expansion at Alexander County EMS.
A ribbon cutting was held on Monday, December 15, to celebrate the grand opening of a major expansion at Alexander County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Station #1. Those in attendance enjoyed a tour of the new facility, which enhances emergency medical response in Alexander County.
According to Alexander County EMS Director Jeff Sigmon, the 9,300-square-foot addition is funded by a $750,000 state allocation and ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds, with no local tax dollars used. The expansion delivers three major improvements for EMS Station #1: a new 5-bay climate-controlled garage that can house six ambulances and a Quick Response Vehicle (QRV); a state-of-the-art training room that marks the first dedicated EMS training space in county history; and much-needed administrative office space, including a central supply room, an office for the training officer, and an office for the PORT (Post-Overdose Response Team) Community Paramedic.
Alexander County Board of Commissioners Chairman Marty Pennell said the expansion marks a milestone for public safety and reflects the county’s commitment to its residents and first responders. “Today’s grand opening represents an investment in the safety and well-being of the people of Alexander County,” Chairman Pennell said. “Our EMS professionals deserve facilities that support the demanding work they perform every day. We are incredibly grateful to Senator Eddie Settle and the State of North Carolina for helping make this project possible without using any local taxpayer dollars.”
State Senator Eddie Settle addressed the crowd at the grand opening, recognizing the county’s leadership and the critical work performed by EMS personnel. “I knew when I got elected that I wanted to help all of my counties, and help them equally. I’m glad that I was able to help financially make this project happen. Plus, your county commissioners have been behind you and had your back,” Senator Settle said. “EMS is a challenging job, and y’all meet that challenge. I appreciate all you do to keep people safe.”
For many years, ambulances at Station #1 were kept in metal carports exposed to heat and cold, requiring staff to keep trucks plugged in around the clock to avoid dead batteries and to assist with climate control — a practice that often tripped breakers and created operational challenges. The new climate-controlled garage addresses those concerns and provides appropriate protection and storage for both frontline and backup units.
Sigmon said the completion of the project fulfills a long-term goal for the department. “This project has been a dream of mine for many years, and seeing it completed is truly remarkable,” Sigmon said. “The new garage, training room, and office space will have an immediate impact on our readiness and efficiency. I’m extremely thankful for the support of Senator Settle and the Alexander County Board of Commissioners that allowed us to build this facility without placing a burden on our local taxpayers.”
Planning for the expansion began in the summer of 2022. In October of that same year, Sigmon met with local and state leaders to discuss funding needs. During that meeting, Senator Settle expressed his commitment to supporting the project and ultimately secured $750,000 in state funding. The remaining cost was covered by American Rescue Plan Act funds, bringing the total project investment to $1.4 million.
County Manager Justin Mundy said the project is a strong example of effective collaboration. “This addition strengthens our county’s emergency medical response for years to come,” Mundy said. “It’s a strong example of what can happen when state support, federal resources, and local leadership work together toward the same goal. I’m proud of everyone involved in making this project a reality.”
A total of three ambulances and a QRV will operate from Station #1, with two primary units continuing to operate from the front. The administrative improvements also free up much-needed space at the Alexander County Emergency Services headquarters.
Alexander County EMS Station #1 is located at 2430 Highway 90 East in Taylorsville. Residents who wish to pay their EMS bill in person may now do so by visiting the new office located at the rear of the facility.
Sigmon said work is also progressing at EMS Station #2 in Bethlehem, where a second ambulance and crew began operating in September 2025. That project is nearing the bidding phase.
For more information about Alexander County EMS, visit alexandercountync.gov/departments/emergency-medical-services or call 828-632-4166.