White County officials and community members gathered this week to break ground on Fire Station 9, a new facility designed to expand the fire and emergency response in the Mount Yonah community.
Located on Sonnys Circle off Duncan Bridge Road, the station is strategically placed to improve coverage for a community experiencing both residential growth and increased tourism.
According to county officials, the SPLOST-funded project reflects the county’s commitment to reinvesting local tax dollars into critical public safety infrastructure. Precision United of Cleveland, Georgia, will manage construction, with completion expected in summer 2026.
Better protection and ISO rating
Once operational, Fire Station 9 will cover 1,502 structures in its response zone. Of those, 817 structures are within 1,000 feet of a hydrant and will qualify for a Class 4 ISO rating. The rest will receive a Class 4Y rating—both major improvements from the previous Class 10. County leaders say the new ratings will provide faster response times, better protection, and lower insurance costs for many property owners.
“This station represents a major step forward in public safety and quality of life for White County residents,” said White County Commission Chairman Travis Turner. “It’s a smart investment in both safety and our community’s future.”
