Grant allows Patchogue Fire District to purchase new fire boat

New York State Sen. Dean Murray,  (R,C East Patchogue) proudly delivered a $500K grant to the Patchogue Fire District this past weekend. The long-awaited $500,000 State and Municipal (SAM) Grant will help pay for the district’s new fire boat, which enhances emergency response and protects residents along the waterways of Patchogue and the surrounding communities.

“This is a day worth celebrating. Every day for the last four years, I’ve fought to help secure this funding and ensure these dollars were finally delivered to the Patchogue Fire District. I’m proud to stand with our firefighters as they receive this well-deserved investment in public safety. As a coastal community, having the equipment necessary to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies on our waterways is essential to protecting lives and property,” Murray.The new boat will strengthen the Patchogue Fire District’s ability to respond to fires, rescues, and other emergencies on the Great South Bay and surrounding waterways, providing an additional layer of protection for residents, boaters, and visitors. The Patchogue Fire District originally applied for this grant over six years ago, but some political obstacles put the funding in jeopardy. Sen. Murray took office in January 2023 and after learning of the challenges this district and several other fire districts were facing in getting money that had been promised to them, he made these grants a top priority. Sen. Murray thanked the leadership and volunteers of the Patchogue Fire District for their commitment to serving the community and applauded the patience and perseverance of everyone who worked diligently over the past several years to bring the project to completion. Murray also thanked Senate minority leader, Rob Ortt, who went above and beyond to help Sen. Murray secure the funding that was promised.

“Our firefighters put themselves in harm’s way every day to keep our community safe,” Sen. Murray added. “This investment provides them with another critical tool to do their jobs safely and effectively. Congratulations to the Patchogue Fire District and thank you for your continued service to our community.”