Assemblymember Karen McMahon (D-Amherst), in partnership with Senator Sean Ryan (D-Buffalo), announced significant funding for the refurbishment and expansion of North Amherst Fire Company’s hall, totaling $900,000. The funding, secured through a New York State grant, was supported and advocated for by McMahon and Ryan for over a year.

North Amherst Fire plans to expand its truck bay which currently shoehorns its fleet of three trucks into a space that leaves minimal leftover space for storage and movement. With an expansion, the firefighters will be able to operate more safely and efficiently, allowing for better response time, and even attracting more recruits.

“When I visited the North Amherst Fire Company over a year ago, it was immediately apparent that this department is bursting at the seams,” said Assemblymember McMahon. “Our first responders should have the best equipment and resources so they can effectively serve our community. I was proud to partner with my colleague, Senator Ryan, to secure these funds so the North Amherst Fire Company can continue to grow and protect their district to the best of their ability for years to come.”

“It is vitally important for our first responders to have the resources they need to keep our neighborhoods safe,” said Senator Ryan. “I was honored to work with Assemblymember Karen McMahon to secure state funding for the North Amherst Fire Company to assist with their expansion project, which will help them better serve the Amherst community.”

“This crucial investment will enhance emergency response capabilities, improve firefighter safety, and better serve the growing needs of the North Amherst Fire District,” said North Amherst Fire Company President Joel Smith. “This grant will allow us to replace outdated facilities with a modern, energy efficient building designed to accommodate current equipment and personnel. We are grateful for the support from Assemblymember McMahon and Senator Ryan who first came out to our fire house and recognized the need for upgrades. We thank them for making this project possible, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on public safety for years to come.”