QUEENS, NY – Borough President Melinda Katz, City Councilmember Paul Vallone, the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) and Community Board 7 today announced over $2.075 million in Fiscal 2018 funding allocations for capital improvements at several FDNY firehouses in Queens. The funds will enhance six longtime Queens firehouses, including Engine 295/Ladder 144 in Whitestone which has been service since 1915.

“Firehouses hold New York’s Bravest, our heroes who fearlessly run toward danger and crisis when everyone else runs away,” said Borough President KATZ. “Firehouses are the pillars of the neighborhood, where Queens families turn to for safety and rescue at our most vulnerable hours. In partnership with the Department and leaders like Councilmember Vallone, we’ve issued significant capital investments this year toward important upgrades at several Queens firehouses.”

“We owe an immeasurable debt to our firefighters and first responders. The best fire department in the world deserves the best in return,” said Councilmember VALLONE. “This funding will go a long way to improving these firehouses and is a shining example of what can be accomplished by partnering with our fellow elected officials.”

“The Department is grateful to Borough President Katz, Councilmember Vallone, and all of our elected officials who have provided generous support to upgrade our facilities,” said FDNY Commissioner DANIEL A. NIGRO. “This funding is not only an investment in our firehouses, it’s a commitment to help our Firefighters protect all New Yorkers.”

“We’re grateful to Councilmember Vallone and Borough President Katz for prioritizing the safety of our growing neighborhoods within Community Board 7,” said Queens Community Board 7 Chair EUGENE KELTY.

The $2.075 million in FY18 allocations for capital projects at the six Queens firehouses are as follows: