Fire Station 11 Ribbon Cutting

The City of Tuscaloosa, Mercedes-Benz U.S. International (MBUSI) and the State of Alabama held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Fire Station 11 on Friday, November 8 at 11 a.m.

The new fire station will enable Tuscaloosa Fire Rescue to provide fire protection services to MBUSI's nearly one billion square foot battery plant, as well as to MBUSI's original campus.

"This new fire station, and the increased public safety that comes with it, is a testament to what can be achieved for our community when we work together," Mayor Walt Maddox said. "This wouldn't have been possible without the partnership between the amazing team we have at the City, the State of Alabama, and MBUSI. I can't thank these partners enough for making this day possible."

In January 2022, the City entered into an updated fire protection services agreement with Mercedes-Benz U.S. International (MBUSI) and the State of Alabama.

"Today, we celebrate not just the opening of a new fire station, but the City of Tuscaloosa's commitment to safety, innovation, and community service," said Federico Kochlowski, President and CEO of MBUSI. "We appreciate the brave firefighters who embody the spirit of courage and dedication, and we thank you for helping to ensure a brighter, safer future for this community. Thank you to both the City of Tuscaloosa and the State of Alabama for making this day a reality."

Per the agreement, the state provided $10 million to fund: the construction of the new fire station, a new ladder truck, a new pumper truck and other equipment. MBUSI has provided funding for the annual personnel costs for 12 new fire rescue employees for the next 20 years.

"From the beginning, the teamwork of Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, the City of Tuscaloosa and the State of Alabama has brought greater opportunity for this community," Governor Kay Ivey said. "It is in that spirit that we have recommitted resources to ensuring that our first responders have the tools they need to better safeguard local lives and property. The dedication of the well-equipped Fire Station 11 is the realization of this commitment."

Design for the new fire station began in early 2022, and construction began in September 2023.