Cars, camp chairs and flags lined the road in front of the new Provo Fire Station 22 for its dedication at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 11. The dedication included a 9/11 tribute.
“It’s a very historic day in the fire service, so it’s a great way to honor the people that lost their lives on 9/11,” firefighter Jeanie Budge Atherton said.
Previously known as Provo Fire Station 2, the station was demolished last fall after a $70 million bond passed in Provo. The new station was rebuilt to provide a safer, more comfortable space for firefighters. During the dedication it was mentioned that there were still contractors on sight yesterday putting the final touches on the station.
Mayor Michelle Kaufusi offered her gratitude to firefighters and said, “We can never truly repay you for your sacrifice, but today, we give you a comfortable place to rest your weary heads at night. So, as the mayor of Provo I say, welcome home.”
The grand opening event was intermingled with the Provo 9/11 tribute. It was mentioned that of the 2,977 lives lost, 343 were firefighters.
Aside from the 9/11 tribute, there was a traditional fire hose ribbon cutting ceremony and the first dispatch call.
Those in attendance were required to wear masks and social distance, and there was a live stream provided on Facebook. There was a guided tour for those in attendance and a virtual tour for those watching from home.
“We are honored to be able to on this day, on this sacred day, to offer this gift to the Provo community,” Provo Fire Chief Jim Miguel said.
