Jackson rebuilds

On May 6, a tornado ripped through Jackson.

In addition to destroying several homes, it ripped apart the complex that served as the headquarters for the police and fire departments.

Now the station has been rebuilt.

Both departments have been back in their rebuilt quarters since August. The departments recently held an open house to show their appreciation for the help and donations that came pouring in after the tornado.

During the $350,000 renovation, the city made a few changes to the complex.

Workers replaced recessed lighting with flat panels to make the hallway brighter, expanded the firefighter bunk rooms and installed a shower and small laundry room. New drywall partitions created additional office space and interview rooms in the police department.

The construction and remodeling took three months, which was about half the time that was expected. It was a quick rebound that shows the resiliency of the entire city of Jackson.

The reopening of the police and fire headquarters and last week's open house are symbols of Jackson's recovery from the devastating tornado.