Grant kick-starts new North End firehouse

The roof leaks over Lt. Cliff Barliss's cot, water trickles from the shower onto the tiny kitchen area, and the narrow stairs to the second floor feature a big outline of a body painted on the wall marking the spot where a firefighter fell as he raced down the twisting wood stairs to respond to a call, one of some 1,700 last year. 

But firefighters who are stationed in the old brick structure at 1692 Main Street are not complaining. From all the faded, framed photos up on the thickly-painted walls, the circa-1939 building displays the pride and camaraderie of the fire service. 

"I love the old buildings," says Chief Kevin Munson. But the equipment, science and training needed now surpassed the ability of the infrastructure to serve its occupants. That's why East Hartford has long planned to replace the building, but has struggled to find the right time to ask the taxpayers to support what could now be a $12 million project. With a design in hand, and property purchased, obtaining state and federal grants will help defray the local cost. Congressman John Larson took the first step to help Tuesday presenting a $1 million check to the town to help with the project. 

"Our firefighters work hard every day to keep our communities safe," said Larson. "As co-chair of the Fire Services Caucus, I have been proud to deliver more than $3 million for the East Hartford Fire Department over the past five years to ensure our first responders have the equipment and training they need. The funding we announced today will fund the replacement and modernization of Fire Station 2 and connect our firefighters with up-to-date training they to better combat intensifying house fires. I will continue to work with our local leaders and Chief Munson to support our firefighters and equip them with all the necessary tools to stay safe on the job and serve the entire community well." 

"I would like to thank Congressman Larson for his continued support of East Hartford and for securing this hugely impactful federal investment to help replace Fire Station 2, one of the Town's oldest fire facilities," said Martin. "This crucial investment helps us move forward with our next major infrastructure priority. Investing in local infrastructure is critical because it supports the essential services our residents rely on every day. Facilities like our fire stations are what make it possible for our firefighters to reach homes across town in less than four minutes. So, this funding really ensures we can continue delivering that level of service and keeping our community safe." 

Larson requested funding for East Hartford's new fire station as part of this year's Community Project Funding (CPF) process, securing $850,000 in federal funds.