SMITHVILLE, GA -- Lee County dedicated its new fire and EMS station today.

The Smithville station is located at 2345 Hwy. 19.

Lee County Commission Chairman Ed Duffy thanked the previous Board of Commissioners for including funds for the station in SPLOST IV.

Fire Officials say the new station will greatly improve their emergency capabilities.

"By being right here on the edge of Smithville, it gives us a much better response time. In the past, we were looking at close to 15 minutes," said Fire Chief James Howell.

Representatives from Phoebe Putney Hospital presented a $17,000 cardiac monitor to the station as a dedication gift.