Motorists traveling along GA 61 across from Ithica Elementary may have noticed recent work taking place at the site. According to Carroll County Government, the activity is part of the development of an Emergency Vehicle Operator Course, or EVOC, training area.
Ashley Hulsey, communications director for Carroll County Government, said the facility will provide a controlled environment where first responders and other emergency personnel can receive specialized training in the safe operation of emergency vehicles, including techniques needed during high-stress and emergency situations.
Carroll County crews, with assistance from assigned inmate work details, are currently working at the property as development continues.
County officials emphasized that the EVOC facility is not a newly approved project. The Carroll County Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of approximately 52 acres at 2011 Carrollton-Villa Rica Highway for the center several years ago.
According to a 2024 county press release, commissioners had previously committed funding to construct the course to provide training for local law enforcement officers, firefighters, ambulance drivers, public works equipment operators and bus drivers.
Plans for the facility include specialized driving areas designed to simulate town and city streets and give operators experience with skills such as lane changes, controlled braking, parking and responding safely to emergency calls.
County officials said the goal of the facility is to give those who regularly operate fire trucks, ambulances, dump trucks and other large or emergency vehicles additional training while improving safety for both drivers and the public.
Special thanks to Ashley Hulsey, Communications director for Carroll County, GA Government for her contributions to this article. Photo by Amy.
