During its meeting last Tuesday, the Greene County Board of Commissioners approved building “The REDDY Drill Yard” to enhance training at Greene County Fire Rescue.
The facility’s name pays tribute to Battalion Chief Chris Eddy, who died from an explosion in September while putting out a tractor-trailer fire.
“[He was] a man whose passion for training, visionary leadership, and enduring influence helped shape the identity of our fire service,” read the project proposal.
“Throughout his distinguished career, Chris was often affectionately known as ‘Chris Ready’ — a name he earned for his unwavering preparedness, eagerness to take on difficult challenges, and relentless ‘want-to’ attitude.
“By incorporating that nickname into the name of the facility, we not only honor Chris’ memory but enshrine the values he championed,” continued the proposal. “The REDDY Drill Yard will serve as a constant reminder to all who train there to pursue excellence, embrace challenges, and — as Chris always said — ‘Do It Right.’ “Though Chris served in several departments over the course of his career, Greene County Fire Rescue was his home. Here, he truly flourished, devoting himself wholeheartedly to the mission and the people of GCFR. The name ‘REDDY’ is more than a nod to his legacy; it’s a symbolic fusion of his name and his ethos: to always be ready.”
Fire Chief Rodney Wiggins stated that the facility will be the “cornerstone” of the department’s ongoing efforts to enhance firefighters’ skills, readiness, and safety.
“It will be a true gamechanger for us,” Wiggins said. “As our community continues to grow, so does the demand placed on firefighters. To meet these increasing demands and continue providing the highest level of service, we must invest in modern, hands-on training that reflects the complex, real-world challenges that our team faces every day.”
According to the project proposal, the facility will consist of several containers and multiple training props on a concrete pad. There will be live burn rooms on three floors, as well as hose management and search drill spaces, ladder and ventilation operations, forceable entry, rope rescue, and confined space training, along with simulated fire scenarios.
Wiggins said the facility will be strategically located in the center of the county at 1180 C Weldon Smith Dr., serving as a hub for multi-company drills, interagency collaboration, and professional development.
The facility will cost roughly $1.07 million from the county’s unincorporated services fund balance.