The second of three new fire stations to open held a ribbon cutting Thursday morning,

Station 13, located on Spaulding Road, on the city’s far southwest side welcomed dignitaries from the city, state and even the federal level. Representatives from Sen Durbin and the Mayor’s office were on hand as were State Senator Steve McClure, Rep. Mike Coffee, and aldermen Brad Carlson and Ralph Hanauer, whose Ward 7 will be home to the new facility.

Fire Chief, Ed Canny, said the station will cover an area that has been underserved over the last 20 years as residential and business construction has expanded greatly over that time.

He went on to say #13 will now cover residential subdivision such as Panther Creek and Piper Glen but eventually reach out to cover the new Scheels sports complex.

There will be an open house on Saturday from 9am until noon. The public is invited.