$100K In Grants Awarded To Berkeley Fire Departments

BERKELEY, NJ — Two of Berkeley's fire departments have been awarded a total of $100,000 in grants for updated equipment from the state.

The Bayville Volunteer Fire Department received $70,000 and the Pinewald Pioneer Fire Company received $30,000 in American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grants through the Department of Community Affairs.

In total, 353 departments across New Jersey were awarded $20 million.

“I am pleased that my Administration was able to double the allocation of ARP funds in this year’s budget from $10 million to $20 million to fire departments, which provide critical, life-saving services in our communities,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “The continuation of the American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grant Program for a second cycle means local governments don’t have to break the bank to get firefighters the gear and equipment they need. We’re putting our federal tax dollars to use here in New Jersey communities for essential services.”

The funding was praised by the 9th Legislative District, who called it “an appropriate and practical use of taxpayer dollars.”

“Local fire departments and personnel provide essential life-saving services to the community and, therefore, should be provided the necessary resources to carry out their responsibilities to safeguard the public and protect property in the most effective manner possible,” said Sen. Carmen Amato, Asm. Brian Rumpf and Asm. Greg Myhre in a statement.

“It can be difficult for fire departments to replace equipment when needed due to the high costs involved and financial constraints. The American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grants give fire departments the ability to purchase the equipment they need to protect our communities and keep themselves safe,” said DCA Acting Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez. “DCA is proud to administer this important grant program and direct federal funds to the public servants who answer the call to serve their community despite enormous risk to their lives.”