Officials from the City of Cullman and Cullman Fire Rescue gather around as Cullman Fire Rescue Chief Edward Reinhardt cuts the ribbon of Cullman Fire Rescue Station No. 3.

Fire coverage in Cullman took a step forward with the Thursday opening of Fire Station No. 3 on the north side of the city.

The $4.8 million station is the culmination of a long-anticipated dream by city leaders and the expertise of retiring Fire Chief Edward Reinhardt, who dedicated 40 years of service as a firefighter.

The building is not just a hull for fire engines, even though its bays are massive and more than adequate. With this station comes the type of technology and training facilities needed to maintain an effective team of firefighters and emergency medical first responders.

Much needed as the city sees continued growth on the north side, Fire Station No. 3 is open because of cooperation within the community. Topre America Corporation gave $100,000 in seed money to help make the station a reality. Merchants Bank sold the lucrative land to the city for this strategic location, and city leaders past and present have been dedicated to seeing the project through.

The opening of the station does not diminish fire coverage elsewhere. The station at City Hall remains staffed, and the one on the west side of town is also fully operational.

With many businesses opening along Alabama 157, the growth of Cullman Regional nearby, and more residences springing up, the new fire station is a project that has an immediate impact on the area and its future.

The new station should serve the community well. Reinhardt and his staff have made improvement in department’s medical response and helped secure valuable grants that allowed the hiring of additional firefighters, and brought new, upgraded equipment to the city.

For some residents, the presence of the new fire station may also mean lower insurance rates. Most of all, the protection of lives and property will certainly be improved.

Fire Station No. 3 is a clear example of Cullman’s leaders showcasing their vision and determination in making the community a better place to live. Fire and medical first responders are sometimes taken for granted until assistance is needed, but the effectiveness of their service requires investment in equipment, facilities, training and proper staffing.

Reinhardt, his staff, city leaders and Topre America and Merchants Bank executives deserve a collective tip of the hat and thanks for taking a major step in making Cullman a better, and safer, place to live.