As reported in a press release issued yesterday by Mayor Reed Gusciora’s office, the Trenton Fire and Emergency Services Department (TFD) was awarded a $85,291 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s 2019 Port Security Grant Program. The funds will be used to strengthen critical infrastructure against safety risks and enhance maritime awareness.
Fire Director Derrick J. V. Sawyer credits Battalion Chief Todd Willever and Lisa Willever for “writing an excellent application for the Port Security grant. We have a focus, and action is being taken.” The TFD’s grant from DHS will subsidize the cost of 3 watercraft with engines, dive rescue equipment, swift water suits and vests, throw bags, a rescue line gun, and a dive communication system.
In addition, FM Global, through their Fire Prevention Grant Program, has awarded TFD $2,709. This in order to reinforce the City’s fire-prevention measures and combat property loss associated with fire.
FM Global states that the Department’s application “stood out among the hundreds we received.” The grant from FM Global will fund the acquisition of seven digital cameras, which will be instituted to prevent “the frequency and severity of fire.”
Mayor Reed Gusciora commended Director Sawyer and added that “these grants will add to our shared vision to improve safety for the Capital City. This administration is committed to preparing Trentonians for our future.”