PATCHOGUE, NY — The Patchogue Fire District has received a $500,000 State and Municipal Facilities grant to help fund a new fire boat, giving local firefighters additional resources to respond to emergencies on the Great South Bay and nearby waterways.
The grant was delivered by New York State Senator Dean Murray, whose office announced the funding this week. State records show the Patchogue Fire District was originally nominated for a $500,000 fire boat grant in 2020 under the State and Municipal Facilities program.
Murray said the funding had been delayed for years and described securing the money as a public-safety priority after taking office in January 2023.
“This is a day worth celebrating. Every day for the last 4 years, I’ve fought to help secure this funding and ensure these dollars were finally delivered to the Patchogue Fire District,” Murray said in the release.
He added that having appropriate marine-response equipment is especially important in a coastal community where firefighters may be called to fires, rescues and other emergencies on the water.
According to Murray’s office, the new boat will strengthen the district’s ability to respond on the Great South Bay and surrounding waterways, adding another layer of protection for residents, boaters and visitors.
The Patchogue Fire District’s current budget also includes a dedicated line for fire boat-related expenses, underscoring the role marine response plays in the district’s operations.
Murray credited the Patchogue Fire District’s leadership and volunteers for continuing to pursue the funding and also thanked Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt for assisting with the effort.
“Our firefighters put themselves in harm’s way every day to keep our community safe,” Murray said. “This investment provides them with another critical tool to do their jobs safely and effectively.”
The funding does not cover every detail of the boat project on its own, but it provides a substantial state contribution toward the purchase.