New EMS Station Opens in Reno County, Boosting Emergency Response

Reno County Emergency Medical Services marked a major milestone Friday with the opening of a new EMS station, a project years in the making that is expected to significantly improve emergency response times in the community.

EMS Chief Dave Johnston said the new station will enhance service in the core and southwest areas of town by allowing crews to staff two ambulances from the location—an increase from the single unit previously stationed nearby.

“This is an incredible addition to our response in the community,” Johnston said. “It’s going to dramatically improve how quickly we can reach people when they need us.”

Previously, when the lone unit in the area was already on a call, ambulances often had to be dispatched from farther away, including the hospital. The addition of a second unit is expected to improve both response times and overall service availability across the south and west parts of the city and into the county.

The new station is designed to support around-the-clock operations, with living quarters that can accommodate up to five crew members. The facility also includes open-concept kitchen and living areas, report-writing workspaces, and dedicated training areas where EMS staff complete daily hands-on skills and continuing education.

Planning for a new station dates back to the early 2000s, Johnston said, though the project gained momentum in recent years with support from county leadership and staff.

Officials and speakers at the event thanked Reno County commissioners, administration, facilities staff, and Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for their roles in bringing the project to completion. EMS Medical Director Dr. Bryan Henderson and members of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce were also recognized for their support.

Reno County EMS Deputy Chief Monika Heller, left, stands with former EMS Chief Randy Miller and David Trotter, with current EMS Chief Dave Johnston. 

The ribbon-cutting ceremony also paid tribute to the building’s history. The site was formerly home to a long-running plumbing, heating, and air business operated by the Nelson family, dating back to the 1960s. The business served the community for decades before closing in recent years.

County commissioners recognized the Nelson family for their longstanding service and impact on the community. Commissioner Randy Parks presented Marlene Nelson with a plaque honoring the family’s legacy and their decades of dedication to Reno County.

Speakers noted the significance of the building’s transition—from a locally owned business to a public safety facility—emphasizing that its purpose remains rooted in serving the community.

The event concluded with a ribbon cutting, celebrating both the new EMS station and its role in strengthening emergency services for Reno County residents.

Reno County EMS is also holding an open house for the new EMS Station #3 in Arlington next Friday, April 24th from 4 - 6 pm at 107 W. Fair Street.