Contact: Sunny Mindel/Matthew Higgins (212) 788-2958
The Mayor was joined at the groundbreaking ceremony by Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen, Department of Design and Construction Commissioner Luis Tormenta and members of New York's Bravest.
"The new Firehouse will serve not only as an asset to these Fire Companies, but to the surrounding neighborhood," the Mayor said. "A Firehouse is an integral part of any neighborhood because the Fire Department provides so many essential services beyond extinguishing fires. For the person suddenly stricken with an illness, a Firehouse is the source of emergency medical assistance. As a result of the Department's Children's Assistance Program (Fire CAP) a Firehouse is a 24-hour safe haven for neighborhood children. And a Firehouse will always be a collection site for donations of food and clothing for those in need during times of crisis - regardless of whether the recipients of the relief live around the corner or around the world."
Fire Commissioner Von Essen said, "I am confident that this new facility will serve as a neighborhood symbol of dedication and pride to the ranks of the Bravest that will be working here and to the members of the community as well. The decision by the City to build a new facility rather than refurbish the existing one illustrates the Mayor's strong commitment to the Fire Department, its mission and its future."
Department of Design and Construction Commissioner Tormenta said, "The new Firehouse is one of the most important projects in our portfolio. We are proud to continue to work with the Fire Department. This facility will help New York's Bravest to continue to provide an invaluable service to the community for decades to come."
Engine Company 75 and Ladder Company 33 continue to be two of the busiest fire units in the City. Their current quarters, located at 2283 Jerome Avenue, was built in 1901. Almost a century later, the three companies have outgrown the outdated and cramped facility.