CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Governor Jim Justice has provided a $1 million check to the Kanawha County Emergency Ambulance Authority to improve ambulance services in West Virginia’s most populous county. This funding will be combined with $2.8 million in federal funds and a smaller loan to construct four new ambulance stations in St. Albans, Dunbar, South Charleston, and Marmet.
Monica Mason, the executive director of the Kanawha County Emergency Ambulance Authority, mentioned that the current ambulances are stationed at homes and leased buildings in these areas. The new stations will provide permanent locations for these services.
The $1 million from the state matches the federal funding already approved by Congress. This investment comes at a critical time as EMS agencies across the region face challenges. Recently, Dunlow EMS in Wayne County announced it will be closing.
Delegate Dana Ferrell, a member of the House Fire and EMS committee, acknowledged the need for fundamental reform in EMS funding in West Virginia. Mason expressed gratitude for the funding but highlighted the ongoing statewide crisis, emphasizing the need for permanent and consistent funding for day-to-day operations.
Once Kanawha County accesses the $2.8 million in federal funding, construction on the new stations can begin, which officials estimate will cost around $5 million.