NEWTON, N.C. — Catawba County officially opened its newest Emergency Medical Services base Tuesday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the facility located at 827 7th Avenue Southeast in Hickory.

County commissioners, county leadership, EMS personnel, project partners, and community members attended the event celebrating completion of the new station. Officials say the facility was designed to strengthen emergency response capabilities and improve service throughout the Hickory area.

The new standalone EMS base replaces an outdated facility and is strategically located near major roadways, allowing emergency crews quicker access to the communities they serve. The 6,500-square-foot building includes four drive-through ambulance bays, training space, offices, and crew readiness areas.

County officials say the project is part of Catawba County’s continued investment in public safety infrastructure and a long-term plan to replace aging EMS facilities with stations designed to meet the needs of a growing population.

Commission Chair Randy Isenhower said the facility demonstrates the county’s commitment to providing first responders with the resources needed to serve residents safely and efficiently.

The project was completed with assistance from Winstead Architecture and Wilkie Construction Company.