The City of Benton and the Benton Fire Department will celebrate a major investment in public safety with a ribbon cutting ceremony for the city’s new Fire Training Facility on Monday, May 11, 2026. Read more below. 

The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. at 1201 S. Market Street, located across from the new Animal Services building. Community members, local leaders, and media representatives are invited to attend. The Benton Area Chamber of Commerce will also participate in the ribbon cutting.

The new facility is designed to enhance firefighter preparedness by providing expanded opportunities for hands-on training, emergency response exercises, and advanced safety instruction. City officials say the investment will help ensure Benton’s fire personnel are equipped to meet the needs of a growing community.

“This facility represents our continued commitment to equipping our firefighters with the best possible training and resources,” said Fire Chief Russell Evans. “We are excited to share this achievement with the community we proudly serve.”

Leaders from the city, fire department, and community partners are expected to speak during the event about the long-term impact the facility will have on public safety in Benton and surrounding areas.

Parking for the ceremony will be available across the street at the Animal Services building. Media outlets planning to attend are encouraged to arrive early for setup and interview opportunities.

See MySaline’s list of all the events in Saline County at www.mysaline.com/events!