The following news article by Mason Willett was published on April 15, 2026 at whsv.com.
WAYNESBORO, Va. (WHSV) – Fire Station 2 is officially open in Waynesboro after years of planning, and officials say the need has grown as the city expands.
Fire Chief Andrew Holloway said growth in the city’s west end — including commercial development — has increased demand for faster response times. He said newer construction materials can burn more quickly, making rapid response even more critical.
Crews began operating out of the station in January, and Holloway said they are already seeing the impact. On Feb. 21, a house fire broke out on Lee Street. Holloway said Station 2 crews reached the scene in less than three minutes, with Station 1 arriving about three minutes later.
“If we didn’t have that response time, that would be a different story today,” Holloway said. “The house would have been totally lost.”
City leaders said the new station reflects Waynesboro’s priorities.
“Public safety remains a top priority for the council, and the establishment of Fire Station 2 serves as proof of that commitment,” Mayor Kenny Lee said.
Holloway said the station has handled more than 150 calls since crews moved in, calling it a major step in closing coverage gaps and improving public safety.
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Pictured above, Lantz employee and Waynesboro Fire Station project Superintendent, Jeremy Folmar, stands outside of the finished station.
