Release #317-00

 

Contact:

Sunny Mindel/Julie Caudell (212) 788-2958

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani joined Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen, and Department of Design and Construction Commissioner Kenneth Holden today dedicated the first new firehouse to be built in New York City in 15 years. The new facility, located at the corner of Cameron Place and Walton Avenue in the University Heights section of the Bronx, houses Engine Company 75, Ladder Company 33 and Battalion 19.

"I am proud today to cut the ribbon on this beautiful, state-of-the-art facility," said Mayor Giuliani. "Anything that can be done to support the service of New York's Bravest, who routinely go above and beyond the call of duty for the people of New York, is a priority of this administration."

"By supporting the construction and the opening of this new firehouse," said Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen. "Mayor Giuliani has once again demonstrated his commitment to the Fire Department. Its mission, its future, and the communities that it serves. The old quarters of Engine 75 and Ladder 33 which were constructed in 1901 were outgrown years ago. It was designed for use with horses, not with the modern equipment of today's Fire Department. With this new state-of-the-art facility we will be able to continue effectively and efficiently to serve the citizens of this community for many, many years to come."

"Mayor Giuliani created the Department of Design and Construction to deliver the City's capital construction projects in a safe, expeditious and cost-effective manner," said Commissioner Holden. "Our team did an outstanding job. Sixteen months after the groundbreaking, I am proud to turn this new firehouse over to New York's Bravest so they can continue to provide their invaluable service to the community."

A notable element of the new building is the inscription of the names of firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty in the Bronx on more than 50 glass blocks, visible to the public, in the wall of the Walton Avenue side of the structure.

The firehouse recently vacated at 2283 Jerome Avenue was built almost 100 years ago. After it is renovated and modernized, it will be converted for use as an Emergency Medical Services facility.