CORTLAND, NY (607NewsNow) — Some old fire equipment in Cortland is being replaced. 

The city has received a $1 million Community Development Block Grant award from the New York State Office of Community Renewal to replace an old pump truck.

“The award of this grant from Governor Hochul and the Office of Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas is of great benefit to not only the Fire Department, but the City as a whole,” Fire Chief Wayne Friedman said. “With the current overwhelming cost of fire apparatus, any assistance we receive allows the department to maintain its apparatus replacement program with the least impact on our taxpayers.”

“This is a major investment in the safety of our residents,” said Mayor Scott Steve. “We’re glad we can work in partnership with Thoma and New York State to find creative funding solutions to help relieve our already overburdened taxpayers and provide the vital equipment for our top-notch team of firefighters.”

According to a statement from the city, “the new pump truck will provide a significant upgrade in both facility capabilities and equipment, improving reliability, safety, and operational efficiency for firefighters responding to calls throughout the City and in neighboring municipalities.”

Cortland previously was awarded a grant in 2024 for fire equipment upgrades.