TRENTON Gov. Phil Murphy March 5 announced the award of $20 million in American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grants to local and regional fire departments across New Jersey to ensure firefighters are well protected.
Ventnor City Fire Department received $75,000, the second highest amount of funding available. Pleasantville Fire Department received the highest amount, $85,000.
The Department of Community Affairs awarded the grants to 353 fire departments after a competitive application process. The announcement marks the second time the Murphy administration has awarded American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grants. In November 2022, DCA awarded $10 million to 293 fire departments.
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, Murphy said. 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.
Ventnor Fire Chief Michael Cahill said he is appreciative to receive the grant. Several staff members assisted grant consultant Jim Rutala in an intense process to requesting funds, which will equip 15 firefighters with the protective gear they need to fight fires and stay safe.
They ask for a lot of information because they want to make sure the money goes to departments that need it, Cahill said.
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, DCA Acting Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez said. 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.
Cahill said the National Fire Protection Association recommends each firefighter have two full sets
of gear.
This grant takes a giant load off the taxpayer, Cahill said. If it wasn't for this grant, I would have had to put it in our budget request.
Fire departments were able to request funds for turnout gear, personal protective equipment, cleaning gear, breathing apparatusesand other recommended equipment.
Applications were reviewed based on need, number of service calls, number of active firefighters, population, distressed city rating and financial match.
Atlantic County municipalities receiving funds are:
