by InTrieste
The small Alpine community of Pontebba marked a milestone this week with the inauguration of a new station for its volunteer fire brigade, a longstanding local institution that today counts 15 members serving the surrounding valley.
Regional Councillor for Local Authorities and Public Safety Pierpaolo Roberti attended the ceremony on Wednesday, emphasizing the role volunteer firefighters play in safeguarding remote communities. “A community is stronger when it recognizes the value of those who protect it,” he said, describing the facility as a tangible investment in safety, operational efficiency and the sense of civic responsibility shared across the region.
The event drew local residents, representatives of the fire corps and the mayor of Pontebba, Ivan Buzzi. The station, located in an industrial area on the town’s outskirts, was built by the municipality and funded in stages through regional contributions over recent years. The modern structure provides new operational space, vehicle storage and areas dedicated to service activities.
Roberti framed the opening as part of a broader regional strategy to strengthen emergency response capabilities in the mountainous areas of Friuli Venezia Giulia. “Every investment dedicated to volunteers is an investment in the safety of our communities,” he said, noting that similar projects are planned or already financed in other mountain towns. Ensuring volunteers have adequate facilities and equipment, he added, helps reinforce public confidence and contributes to the resilience of local communities.
