By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
• Officials in southeastern North Carolina are planning to build 11 new fire stations to address rapid population growth and improve emergency response times.
• The proposal covers development in Brunswick, New Hanover and Pender counties and follows community growth trends projected through 2045.
• Plans include staffing and resource expansions alongside station construction to support fire and EMS coverage.
• Funding strategies discussed involve bonds, grants and budget appropriations to implement the multi-year infrastructure plan.
SEACOAST REGION, NC — Local officials in southeastern North Carolina are advancing plans to construct 11 new fire stations as part of a regional strategy to meet rising demands from population growth and expanded development, fire and local government leaders said.
The proposal, covering areas within Brunswick, New Hanover and Pender counties, responds to anticipated increases in residential and commercial occupancy projected through 2045, according to planning documents and statements from county officials.
Officials said the new facilities would be accompanied by expanded staffing levels, apparatus and support resources to enhance fire suppression and emergency medical services across the region.
Funding discussions have included potential use of bonds, state and federal grants, and allocations from annual budgets to phase construction and equipping of the stations over multiple years.
County commissioners and fire chiefs said community input and coordination with planning agencies will continue as the project advances.