KPCW
Nearly 200 people joined the festivities Tuesday, May 20, to explore the fire district's newest facilities.
Firefighters, local leaders and community members gathered at Heber’s new and expanded fire station, the Claude R. and June M. Hicken Fire Station 51.
Guests explored the facilities and cheered as, instead of cutting a ribbon, Fire Chief Eric Hales decoupled two fire hoses.
Hales said the new station, near Wasatch High School on 1200 South, marks a milestone in the fire district’s history.
“It’s especially meaningful to reflect on the fact that, 100 years ago, members of this valley came together to establish the original Heber Valley Fire Department,” he said. “Today, we stand on their shoulders.”
The station was constructed by Big-D Signature, a KPCW financial supporter, and designed by AJC Architects. It more than triples the previous Heber station’s square footage and houses the fire district’s administrative offices.
It also includes dorm rooms for first responders to rest during their 48-hour shifts, a day room with recliners and a kitchen space, and a community room for classes and meetings. One station hallway is adorned with photos from throughout the department’s history.
