New Ambulance Station officially opens

The opening of Station 540 also reflects a shift in how ambulance services are organized. In the past, Prince George relied on multiple smaller stations, including a satellite location in the Hart and another on Edmonton Street. The new station consolidates those operations into a single, centralized hub—a model that BCEHS has begun implementing in other regions.

Heppell explained that this centralized approach is already in use in Victoria and is proving to be highly effective. “We have a similar model in Victoria, and we’d like to expand this model across the province,” she said. “Prince George is one of our key active ground communities where we’ve adopted this model, and it’s shown to be very effective.”

For the paramedics and staff who will work in the new building, the transition represents a major improvement in day-to-day conditions. The facility has been designed with staff well-being in mind, offering modern amenities, dedicated support spaces, and improved operational coordination under one roof.

Jon Brnjas, Clinical Operations Director for the Northern District, highlighted the benefits of bringing teams together in a single location. “As a leader in operations, my biggest concern is always the welfare of my staff,” he said. “Having everyone in a centralized facility means they have immediate access to paramedic supervisors around the clock, as well as logistics staff. It creates a welcoming environment where, even during the short periods of downtime, they feel supported.”

The new station’s location on 12th Avenue also positions it strategically within the city’s evolving healthcare landscape. Although it is not as close to the former Edmonton Street base, it sits just a short distance from the site of the future University Hospital of Northern British Columbia’s acute care tower. This proximity is expected to strengthen collaboration between ambulance services and hospital care providers.

“I think it’s a good partnership,” Heppell said. “When we respond to a 911 call, patients often need to be transported to the hospital, which is the most appropriate place for their care. Being close to that facility makes a lot of sense.”

Station 540 will serve as the primary operational hub for 83 paramedics, including 60 full-time staff and 23 casual workers. By housing this team in a single, purpose-built facility, BCEHS aims to improve efficiency, communication, and service delivery throughout the region.

Beyond its operational advantages, the opening ceremony itself carried symbolic significance. The raising of the Lheidli T’enneh flag acknowledged the traditional territory on which the station stands and underscored the importance of community partnership in public service development.

As Prince George continues to grow, the new ambulance station represents a forward-looking investment in both public safety and healthcare infrastructure. With cutting-edge technology, a centralized model, and a focus on staff support, Station 540 is poised to play a vital role in meeting the region’s emergency response needs for years to come.

by Cheryl Jahn

New Ambulance Station officially opens

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