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Henrico fire chief named during 'state-of-the-art' fire station grand opening

New fire station 'represents an investment in a county that’s growing and thriving'
firehouse20.jpg
Posted at 12:22 AM, Jan 29, 2023
and last updated 2023-01-29 19:01:11-05

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. – Officials announced Henrico’s interim fire chief, Jackson Baynard, has been named the agency’s new chief.

The news came during Saturday’s grand opening of the "state-of-the-art" Firehouse 20 on Willis Road just off Staples Mill Road.

Henrico County Division of Fire Chief Jackson P. F. Baynard
Henrico County Division of Fire Chief Jackson P. F. Baynard

The more than 12,700-square-foot station includes a fitness center, kitchen, bunk rooms and more.

"Firehouse 20 represents Henrico County’s ongoing commitment to employee health, citizen safety, and sustainable infrastructure,” Baynard said. “It also represents an investment in a county that’s growing and thriving.”

Firehouse 20 at 8521 Willis Road.
Firehouse 20 Grand Opening on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023.

Henrico Fire officials said the "state-of-the-art design" will promote firefighter well-being and will in turn improve response times.

Baynard credited multiple people and ideas who "came together as one team with one mission” for coming up with the design of the station.

“It’s that sort of forward-thinking and collaboration that reflects the spirit of our community," Baynard said.

Officials said Firehouse 20, which began taking calls on Jan. 4, is averaging 10 calls per day. It is the county’s 22nd fire station. Officials said a 23rd is planned for the county's East End.

Firehouse 20 at 8521 Willis Road.
Firehouse 20 Grand Opening on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023.

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